ISRO Plans Four Functional Launch Pads by 2029

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) plans to have four functional space launch pads by 2029. ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan announced the plan on 25 October 2026. The proposal includes a dedicated Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) complex at Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu’s Tuticorin district.

Launch Infrastructure in India

India’s launch infrastructure includes the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) at Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh. SDSC has two launch pads used for orbital launch vehicles. ISRO operates under the Department of Space, which is responsible for India’s space programme. The proposed four-pad target is for 2029; details of the locations and schedules for three of the proposed pads have not been specified. A launch complex requires facilities for vehicle assembly, integration, testing and launch operations. It also requires systems to track a launch vehicle and communicate with it during flight. Such infrastructure supports the preparation and operation of satellite launch vehicles.

SSLV Complex at Kulasekarapattinam

The dedicated SSLV complex is being developed across 2,000 acres at Kulasekarapattinam. Its planned facilities include launch pads, integration buildings, rail-track systems, and telemetry, tracking and command systems. The complex is intended to serve the growing demand for satellite launches, including launches using the SSLV. The SSLV is an Indian launch vehicle designed to place small satellites into orbit. Its dedicated complex will provide infrastructure for vehicle integration and launch activities. Kulasekarapattinam is in Tamil Nadu’s Tuticorin district.

Private Sector Participation

ISRO plans to work increasingly with private companies on commercial space operations and satellite-launch demand. The organisation is not planned for privatisation. ISRO also intends to support startups and private enterprises through technology transfer. Private-sector participation in commercial operations forms part of the launch-capacity expansion described in the plan.

Important Facts for Exams

:

• The Indian Space Research Organisation was established in 1969 and is headquartered in Bengaluru.
• The Satish Dhawan Space Centre is located on Sriharikota island in Andhra Pradesh.
• The Small Satellite Launch Vehicle is designed to launch small satellites into orbit.
• Telemetry, tracking and command systems support communication with and monitoring of a spacecraft or launch vehicle.

As of 25 October 2026, ISRO had not specified locations or timelines for the other three proposed launch pads. The Kulasekarapattinam SSLV complex is planned across 2,000 acres in Tuticorin district.