Third launchpad at Satish Dhawan Space Center
Context:
Setting Up of the Third Launchpad at SDSC, Sriharikota The Union Cabinet recently approved the establishment of a Third Launch Pad (TLP) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota.
- This new facility aims to bolster India’s space capabilities, accommodating heavier Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLVs) and preparing for ambitious future missions such as the Bharatiya Antariksh Station and potential crewed lunar landings by 2040.
Features and Innovations of the Third Launch Pad
- Universal and Adaptable Configuration:
- Designed to support NGLVs, Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3), and their scaled-up variants.
- Enhanced flexibility for multiple launch configurations.
- Horizontal Integration:
- Incorporates advanced horizontal rocket assembly methods, differing from the traditional vertical assembly.
- Improves efficiency in rocket integration and reduces turnaround times between launches.
- Backup for Second Launch Pad: Serves as a contingency facility, ensuring uninterrupted operations in case of technical or maintenance issues at the Second Launch Pad (SLP).
Significance of the Third Launch Pad to India’s Space Ambitions
- Enhanced Launch Capacity: Supports higher launch frequencies, enabling both national and commercial missions.
- Facilitating Heavier Launch Vehicles: Prepares ISRO for deploying next-generation technologies with heavier payload capacities.
- Key to Future Missions:
- Vital for realising the Bharatiya Antariksh Station by 2035 and crewed lunar landings by 2040.
- Contributes to Gaganyaan’s human spaceflight missions.
- Strengthening India’s Space Ecosystem: Encourages industry participation, promoting technological innovation and economic growth.
About SDSC: India’s Premier Spaceport
- Historical Overview:
- Established in 1971, initially known as the Sriharikota Range (SHAR).
- Renamed in 2002 to honour Satish Dhawan, former ISRO Chairman.
- Existing Launch Infrastructure:
- First Launch Pad (FLP):
- Operational for over 30 years.
- Primarily supports PSLV and SSLV launches.
- Second Launch Pad (SLP):
- In operation for nearly 20 years.
- Handles GSLV and LVM3 missions, including Chandrayaan-3.
- First Launch Pad (FLP):
- The Role of the Third Launch Pad:
- Augments existing capabilities.
- Essential for launching heavier and next-generation vehicles.
Historical Selection of Sriharikota as India’s Spaceport
- Genesis of the Decision:
- Initiated in the 1960s under Vikram Sarabhai’s leadership.
- EV Chitnis led the site selection process.
- Acquisition and Speed of Implementation:
- Site surveys conducted in 1968; land acquired by October of the same year.
- Remarkable speed in establishing the facility.
Reasons for Choosing Sriharikota
- Geographical Advantages:
Pioneers of India’s Space Programme: Satish Dhawan and Vikram Sarabhai
- Vikram Sarabhai:
- Known as the Father of the Indian Space Programme.
- Initiated satellite and launch vehicle development.
- Satish Dhawan:
- Renowned for his contributions to experimental fluid dynamics and ISRO’s growth.
- Instrumental in operational systems like INSAT, IRS, and PSLV.
- The spaceport’s renaming in 2002 honoured his legacy.
- Located on the east coast, facilitating eastward launches to utilise Earth’s rotation for added velocity (~450 m/s).
- Proximity to the equator optimises geostationary satellite launches.
- Safety Considerations:
- Largely uninhabited area with sea-facing launch paths.
- Ensures safe disposal of separated rocket stages.
- Strategic Location:
- Accessible yet secluded, making it ideal for large-scale space operations.
Conclusion: A Milestone for India’s Space Aspirations The establishment of the Third Launch Pad at SDSC is a strategic step towards realising India’s vision of becoming a leading spacefaring nation. By enabling advanced capabilities, supporting ambitious missions, and fostering industrial collaboration, this facility strengthens ISRO’s trajectory for the next 25-30 years. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and global competitiveness, India’s space programme continues to inspire and lead on the world stage.
