ISRO Chief: Kulasekarapattinam Launch Complex to Be Ready by December 2026

Rapid Summary

• ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan announced that IndiaS second launch complex in Kulasekarapattinam, Tuticorin district, will be completed by December 2026.
• The complex is built on 2,300 acres and aims to enable around 20-25 satellite launches annually.
• The facility focuses on launching satellites via Small Satellite Launch vehicles (SSLVs), capable of lifting payloads of up to 500 kg to an altitude of 400 km.
• SSLVs provide a more targeted solution for smaller satellite launches compared to heavier Polar Satellite Launch Vehicles (PSLVs) and Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicles (GSLVs used at sriharikota).
• PM Modi laid the foundation stone for the new spaceport via video conferencing in February 2024.
• Senior ISRO officials participated in Bhumi Puja for the project, including Director A. Rajarajan of Vikram Sarabhai Space center.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The establishment of a second launch complex at Kulasekarapattinam represents a strategic shift toward diversifying India’s satellite launch capabilities while streamlining operations for small payload requirements through SSLVs. This move complements existing infrastructure at Sriharikota and reflects India’s booming demand within the global space economy by reducing dependency solely on larger vehicles like PSLV/GSLV.

From an operational standpoint, having dual spaceports improves efficiency and adaptability in responding to varied mission needs while mitigating congestion risks during high-frequency launches. Additionally, localized growth in Tuticorin district could stimulate regional economic growth through job creation and connected industries. While enterprising timelines have been set with completion expected by late 2026, meeting these targets will hold critical significance for maintaining confidence among stakeholders-domestic operators as well as international collaborators.

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