ISRO plans to commission a third launch pad at Shriharikota within four years to support heavier satellites and advanced launch vehicles.
The new pad will enable missions carrying 12,000–14,000 kg satellites, improve launch frequency, and allow parallel preparations, strengthening India’s space capabilities for communication, human spaceflight, and deep-space programmes.
Located at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, which spans 175 sq km and has been India’s primary launch base since 1971, the third pad will enhance operational flexibility, national security, commercial competitiveness, and India’s position as a global space-launch hub.
Key Features of the Proposed Launch Pad
The third launch pad is expected to,
- Support heavy-lift launch vehicles
- Enable parallel launch preparations
- Improve launch frequency and turnaround time
- Strengthen India’s capacity for commercial and strategic missions
This will help ISRO meet growing domestic and international demand.
