Third Launch Pad (TLP)
Daily Highlights (2 min series)
17th January 2025
Third Launch Pad (TLP): The Union Cabinet recently approved the construction of a third launch pad (TLP) at the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO’s) space centre in Sriharikota.
- About: It’s purpose to support Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLV) and acts as a standby for the Second Launch Pad (SLP).
- Design Features: Supports heavy-lift, partially reusable NGLV and medium-lift LVM-3.
- Current Launch Pads:
o First Launch Pad (FLP): Operational for 30 years, supports PSLV, SSLV, and functions as a standby for GSLV and LVM-3.
o Second Launch Pad (SLP): Operational for 20 years, supports PSLV, LVM-3, Chandrayaan-3, and future Gaganyaan missions.
- Future Vision: To support the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) by 2035.
o Enable an Indian Crewed Lunar Landing by 2040.
- Need for TLP: Accommodates heavier launch vehicles with advanced propulsion systems.
o Meets evolving space transportation needs for the next 25-30 years.
