The foundation of the new launch complex of the second Indian spaceport in Kulasekarapattinam has been laid (Tamil Nadu State).
Why this place??
The city is located on the coast of the Indian Ocean. Such a location allows launches mainly into equatorial and sun-synchronous orbits, which are most in demand for surveillance and communication satellites. Launches from this region are safer, after all, the rockets will launch over the sea, and not over populated areas.
Main characteristics:
- The total area of the complex is approx 2300 acres.
- Expected completion date – end 2026 year.
- The cosmodrome is specially designed for launches small satellite carriers (SSLV) with a carrying capacity of 500 Kg.
- Provision is made for servicing private companies Skyroot Aerospace and Agnikul Cosmos, which develop their own small rockets.
Implications for India's space program
To date, there is only one spaceport in the country - in Sriharikot (state of Andhra Pradesh), where there are already two operational launch sites, and the third is under construction. However, space traffic is increasing, and private companies are increasingly entering the startup market.
New spaceport:
- Will reduce the load on Sriharikota, where the queue for launches is getting longer and longer.
- It will reduce time and logistics costs for local companies from southern regions of India.
- Will give private startups their own platform for testing and commercial missions.
- It will strengthen international competitiveness of India in the field of small satellites, whose market is rapidly developing in the world.
Source: https://orbitaltoday.com