The Prime Minister inaugurated ISRO's new launch port at Kulasekarapattinam, Tamil Nadu
Need
India requires a secondary launch facility to reduce burden on Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR and cater to commercial satellite launches
Location Advantage
Its strategic location allows for shorter and more fuel-efficient launch trajectories, beneficial for Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)
Construction Status
Tamil Nadu government acquires over 2,000 acres for the new launchport, within next 2 years, enabling 20-30 SSLV launches annually
SSLV Overview
ISRO's SSLV is designed for cost-effective launches of mini, micro, or nano satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO)
SSLV Performance
Despite initial setbacks, SSLV missions have demonstrated ISRO's expansion in launch capabilities, for commercial and on-demand satellite launches
SHAR Infrastructure
The Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SHAR) in Sriharikota serves as ISRO's primary launch facility, equipped with advanced infrastructure for various launch missions
SHAR Operations
SHAR's two launch complexes supported successful launches of Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), and Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk-III (LVM3)