The Union Cabinet has approved the construction of a third launch pad at SDSC in Sriharikota.
Project Cost: The project has an outlay of ₹3,984.86 crore.
Completion Target: The launch pad is expected to be completed by early 2029.
Purpose:
To support the launch of ISRO's Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLVs) starting in 2031.
To support Indian-manned spaceflight missions, with the first such mission envisioned for 2026.
Features: The new launch pad is designed to be versatile and adaptable, capable of supporting various launch vehicles, including NGLVs, Launch Vehicle Mark 3, and scaled-up configurations of NGLVs.
Need for New Launch Pad:
The existing launch pad has been operational for nearly two decades.
A new launch pad is essential to meet the growing demands of the Indian space program and accommodate heavier launch vehicles.
Significance: The new launch pad will significantly boost ISRO's launch capabilities and capacities, enabling it to meet future space transportation requirements for the next 25-30 years.
This decision by the Union Cabinet signifies a significant step forward in India's ambitious space program, paving the way for more complex and demanding missions in the future.
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