Why is ISRO building a second rocket launchport in Tamil Nadu’s Kulasekarapattinam?

Syllabus: GS-III, Subject: Science and Technology, Topic: Space Technology, Issue: Second Rocket launchport in Tamil Nadu

Context: ISRO decided to build a new launchport to prevent overburdening of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR in Sriharikota.

• New facility in Kulasekarapattinam will cater to smaller payload launches, while SHAR will handle bigger missions.
• Private players will have opportunities to develop space systems, build satellites, and launch vehicles.
• Dedicated infrastructure will be available for commercial launches.

Kulasekarapattinam as a Location Choice:

• Chosen for its geographical, scientific, and strategic advantages.
• Allows for direct southward launch trajectories, particularly beneficial (saves fuel) for the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV).
• Location near the equator enhances payload capacities due to Earth’s rotational velocity.

Significance of SSLVs:

• Developed by ISRO for small satellite launches.
• Can launch satellites weighing 10 to 500 kg into Low Earth Orbit (referred to as mini, micro, or nano satellites)
• SSLVs are cost-effective, with shorter flight times for satellite insertion into orbits, making them suitable for commercial and on-demand launches.