What is ISRO's Second Spaceport?
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is planning to set up its second spaceport at Kulasekarapattinam in Thoothukudi district of Tamil Nadu. This spaceport will be exclusively dedicated to Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLVs) developed by the private sector.
What is an SSLV?
An SSLV (Small Satellite Launch Vehicle) is a 3-stage launch vehicle capable of launching satellites weighing approximately 500kg into a 500-km planar orbit.
Who is overseeing the project?
Dr. Pawan Goenka, chairman of the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe), announced the project details.
What is the timeline for the project?
The project is expected to be operational in about two years. Around 2,000 acres of land have already been acquired and handed over to ISRO for this purpose.
Who will use this spaceport?
This spaceport will be used exclusively by the private sector for launching SSLVs. No ISRO rockets will be launched from this site.
Any additional facilities?
A small space manufacturing park will also be established near the spaceport in Kulasekarapattinam.
What is the current status?
The project team is in place, the budget has been defined, and planning has been completed. The project is expected to take off in about two years.
