ISRO Plans Third Launch Pad at Shriharikota: India’s Space Ambitions Soar Higher

India’s space dreams are getting bigger—literally! The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has announced plans to build a third launch pad at Shriharikota, marking a giant leap in the nation’s space exploration capabilities. This ambitious project will enable India to launch heavier satellites and support both crewed and uncrewed missions, positioning the country among global space leaders.

ISRO Third Launch Pad: Quick Facts

Source: Press Information Bureau, Government of India

Why Does ISRO Need a Third Launch Pad?

According to ISRO official announcements, the space agency currently operates two launch pads at Shriharikota. The first handles Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) missions, while the second manages Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) and LVM3 launches. As India’s space ambitions grow, these facilities are reaching capacity constraints.

Padmakumar ES, Director of Satish Dhawan Space Centre, explained that India plans to launch significantly heavier satellites weighing between 12,000 to 14,000 kg into various orbits. This requires more powerful launch vehicles and dedicated infrastructure—hence the third launch pad becomes essential.

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Key Features of the New Launch Pad

Advanced Infrastructure

The third launch pad will support the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV), which will be horizontally integrated—a significant departure from current vertical integration methods. This requires completely redesigned facilities including a new jet deflector system to accommodate more liquid engine boosters.

Multi-Purpose Capability

Unlike the existing pads, the third facility will serve dual purposes. It will handle both human spaceflight missions (like Gaganyaan) and robotic missions, providing ISRO with unprecedented operational flexibility. The pad will also function as a standby facility for the Second Launch Pad (SLP).

Comprehensive Testing Hub

The new pad is designed for entire-stage testing, streamlining ISRO’s test operations. This integrated approach will reduce mission preparation time and enhance reliability for complex space missions.

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Timeline and Development Status

The Union Cabinet cleared the Third Launch Pad (TLP) establishment on January 16, 2025, with a completion target of four years. ISRO is currently in the procurement phase, identifying vendors who can deliver the specialized support needed for this mega project.

The 175 sq km Shriharikota complex, located approximately 135 km east of Chennai, has served India’s space program since October 1971. The addition of this third pad represents the facility’s most significant expansion in decades.

What This Means for India’s Space Future

Gaganyaan Mission Support

The third pad will be crucial for India’s ambitious Gaganyaan human spaceflight program, providing dedicated infrastructure for crewed missions without disrupting ongoing satellite launch schedules.

Heavier Payload Capacity

With the ability to launch satellites weighing 12,000-14,000 kg—double the current maximum—India can deploy more sophisticated communication, earth observation, and scientific satellites.

Commercial Space Growth

This expansion positions India as a more competitive player in the global commercial space launch market, attracting international customers seeking reliable and cost-effective launch services.

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Complementary Infrastructure Projects

ISRO is simultaneously developing a separate launch facility at Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu’s Tuticorin district. This facility will specialize in Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLVs), capable of placing satellites weighing around 500 kg into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Together, these projects create a comprehensive launch infrastructure covering satellites of all sizes.

Additionally, AgniKul Cosmos inaugurated India’s first private launchpad at Shriharikota in November 2022, demonstrating the growing involvement of private players in India’s space sector.

Recent Milestones

ISRO recently achieved a significant milestone on December 24, 2024, when it successfully launched the US-based BlueBird Block-2 satellite weighing approximately 6,000 kg aboard the LVM3-M6 rocket. This marked the first time such a heavy satellite was launched from Indian soil, showcasing the space agency’s growing capabilities.

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