Why in news?
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) plans to build a third launch pad at its Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota by 2029. The facility will support India’s growing number of commercial and government space missions.
Purpose
- The existing two launch pads are operating at near capacity because of increased satellite launches. A third pad will reduce scheduling conflicts and enable simultaneous preparation of multiple missions.
- The new pad is designed to serve next‑generation rockets, including the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission and heavy‑lift launch vehicles.
Features
- The pad will include assembly buildings, vehicle integration facilities, control centres and a dedicated water‑dousing system for sound suppression.
- Infrastructure for handling cryogenic fuels and solid boosters will be enhanced. Environmental safeguards will be built in to minimise impact on nearby Pulicat Lake.
Significance
- Greater launch capacity will help India meet domestic demand and compete in the global commercial launch market.
- The facility will support upcoming manned missions and deep‑space probes, furthering India’s ambitions in space exploration.
- The project will generate local employment and spur development in Andhra Pradesh.
Challenges and way forward
- Environmental approvals and measures to protect the delicate coastal ecosystem must be strictly followed.
- ISRO needs to attract and train skilled personnel to manage increased activity, tying into broader efforts to address the space talent shortage.
- Collaboration with private players in the commercial space sector can help share costs and accelerate development.
