The Union Cabinet on Thursday approved the establishment of the 'Third Launch Pad' or TLP at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre of ISRO at Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The project is of national importance.
The Third Launch Pad project envisages the establishment of the launch infrastructure at Sriharikota for the next generation of launch vehicles of ISRO, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw added while briefing the press following the Cabinet meeting.
The TLP will also support the standby launch pad for the second launch pad at Sriharikota. "This will also enhance the launch capacity for future Indian human spaceflight missions," Vaishnaw said.
Features And Funding
The TLP is designed to feature a configuration that is as universal and adaptable as possible, capable of supporting not only NGLV but also LVM3 vehicles with a semicryogenic stage, as well as scaled-up configurations of NGLV.
According to Vaishaw, it will be developed with maximum industry participation, fully leveraging ISRO's experience in establishing previous launch pads and extensively utilising existing launch complex facilities.
The TLP is targeted for completion within a duration of 48 months (4 years).
The total funding requirement is Rs 3,984.86 crore, which includes the establishment of the launch pad and associated facilities.
“This project will boost the Indian space ecosystem by enabling higher launch frequencies and enhancing the national capacity to undertake human spaceflight and space exploration missions,” Vaishaw said.
As of today, India's space program is reliant on two launch pads for PSLV, GSLV, and LVM3 missions. With plans for a Bharatiya Antariksh Station by 2035 and a crewed lunar landing by 2040, a third launch pad is essential. This new facility will support next-generation, heavier launch vehicles with advanced propulsion systems, ensuring India's space transportation needs are met for the next 25-30 years, including Gaganyaan missions.
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