March 19, New Delhi: India’s space exploration ambitions are set to reach new heights with the development of its second spaceport in Tamil Nadu. ISRO Chairman V Narayanan announced on Monday that the new facility, located in Kulasekarapattinam, a coastal town in Thoothukudi district, will be operational within 24 months. The spaceport’s maiden launch will feature a Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), also known as a mini-PSLV, capable of carrying a 500 kg satellite.
The new spaceport outside ISRO’s primary launch site in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, will significantly enhance India’s capabilities in space launch services. “All facilities will be commissioned for launch in 24 months. The first launch will take place in two years,” Narayanan stated during the inauguration of the Ramakrishnan Centre of Excellence for Research in Fluid and Thermal Science’ at IIT-Madras.
Chandrayaan-5 Mission Approved
In another major development, Narayanan revealed that the central government has approved the ambitious Chandrayaan-5 mission. This marks a significant step toward India’s long-term goal of landing an Indian astronaut on the Moon by 2040. Chandrayaan-5 will feature a higher-capacity lander and deploy a 350 kg rover, essential for future lunar exploration, including potential human missions.
The mission is part of a collaboration between India and Japan, highlighting the growing scope of international partnerships in space exploration. Narayanan also emphasized the importance of Chandrayaan-4, which will focus on landing on the Moon and collecting samples, paving the way for Chandrayaan-5’s advanced objectives.
Expanding India’s Space Capabilities
The establishment of the Kulasekarapattinam spaceport underscores India’s commitment to expanding its space infrastructure and capabilities. The SSLV, designed for cost-effective and rapid launches of small satellites, will cater to the increasing demand for commercial and scientific space missions.
With the approval of Chandrayaan-5 and the development of a second spaceport, India is positioning itself as a global leader in space exploration and technology. These initiatives not only aim to advance scientific research but also strengthen India’s role in international space collaborations.
As ISRO continues to push boundaries, the nation eagerly awaits the first launch from Tamil Nadu’s new spaceport and the next chapter in India’s lunar exploration journey.
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