🚀 Space & Technology

🛰️ India Approves Third Launch Pad at Sriharikota – A New Era for Human Spaceflight

The Government of India has greenlit the construction of a Third Launch Pad (TLP) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota — a key step toward boosting India’s space launch capabilities.
This ambitious project supports the development of Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLVs) and future human spaceflight missions, marking a bold stride in India’s journey toward space leadership.

🛠️ Project Overview

• The TLP will be built to support:
  • Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV)
  • LVM3 (GSLV Mk-III)
• Features:
  • Adaptable architecture
  • Configurable for multiple mission types
  • Designed as a backup to the Second Launch Pad (SLP)

This infrastructure will help meet rising launch demands and ensure mission flexibility.

💰 Funding and Timeline

• Estimated cost: ₹3,984.86 crore
• Project duration: 48 months (4 years)
• Expected to be operational by 2028

This is a long-term infrastructure investment in India’s space future.

🌌 Why It Matters – Benefits to India’s Space Ecosystem

• Enhances launch frequency and throughput
• Critical for:
  • Human spaceflight missions
  • Deep space exploration
  • High-priority satellite deployments
• Strengthens India’s space sector infrastructure

The TLP will play a central role in enabling reliable, high-volume access to space.

🏗️ Existing Launch Infrastructure

India currently operates:

1. First Launch Pad (FLP) – Operational since the early 1990s
2. Second Launch Pad (SLP) – In use for nearly 20 years

These facilities have supported historic missions like:

• Chandrayaan
• Mangalyaan
• Gaganyaan (underway)

🚀 NGLV – The Future of Indian Launch Technology

• Three-stage, heavy-lift launch vehicle
• Partially reusable design for enhanced efficiency
• Replaces legacy systems like PSLV and GSLV
• Capable of launching:
  • Large satellites
  • Interplanetary payloads
  • Human crews

Previously conceptualized as the Unified Launch Vehicle (ULV), the NGLV reflects a move toward modern reusability and cost efficiency.

🌠 Vision for the Future – Beyond Earth Orbit

The TLP supports India’s long-term ambitions, including:

• Bharatiya Antariksh Station by 2035
• Indian Crewed Lunar Landing by 2040

Together, these projects mark India’s transition from Earth-centric missions to deep space exploration.

🕯️ With each launchpad, we lay the foundation not just for rockets—but for dreams that rise beyond the stars.