The newly established spaceport at Kulasekarapatinam, located near Tiruchendur in Tamil Nadu, marks a significant milestone in the advancement of India's space program. Developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), this project aims to provide dedicated infrastructure for Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLVs).
The spaceport's strategic location near the equator offers distinct advantages for polar satellite launches. This positioning enables southward launches without the need to overfly Sri Lanka, enhancing the efficiency and safety of the operations.
The Kulasekarapatinam spaceport is primarily designed to support SSLVs, complementing the existing launch facilities at Sriharikota. This specialization is expected to enhance the flexibility of launch missions and increase the frequency of launches to meet the growing demands of the commercial small satellite market.
The foundation stone for the spaceport was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February 2024, with initial operations anticipated to commence between 2025 and 2026. The expansion of launch capabilities is set to significantly contribute to the growth of India's space economy and technological independence.
While the Sriharikota facility handles larger PSLV and GSLV vehicles, Kulasekarapatinam is tailored for SSLVs, featuring newly developed launch pads, integration facilities, control centers, propellant storage, and support systems. The coastal location was selected for its ideal trajectory for polar and sun-synchronous orbits.
The establishment of this spaceport is expected to stimulate the local economy through job creation, business growth, and infrastructure development. Additionally, aligning with India's space sector reforms, the facility will support private space companies, thereby fostering innovation and competition in the industry.
ISRO has conducted thorough impact assessments and implemented measures to minimize ecological disruption. The development of the Kulasekarapatinam spaceport fits seamlessly into India's broader space strategy, which aims to expand launch capabilities, grow the space economy, and enhance technological independence.
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