‘Third Launch Pad’ (TLP) project

The Union Cabinet approved the establishment of a Third Launch Pad (TLP) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh for launching Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLVs).

• The TLP will support the launch of Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3)with a semi-cryogenic stage and facilitate horizontal & tilted integration of NGLVs.
• It will enable higher launch frequencies and increase capacity for future human spaceflight & space exploration
• Sriharikota was selected for the TLP due to its strategic location on the eastern coast, proximity to the equator, and safety factors like being near the sea and uninhabited areas.
• ISRO is developing the NGLV (Soorya Rocket), a three-stage rocket with a reusable first stage and semi-cryogenic propulsion.
• The NGLV will have three times the current payload capacity and is designed for low-cost access to space.