The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has announced plans to commission a third launch pad at Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Shriharikota, within four years. The move aims to support heavier satellites, bigger launch vehicles, and higher mission frequency, strengthening India’s space-launch ecosystem.

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•  Third launch pad planned at Shriharikota; commissioning target: within four years
• Procurement process initiated; vendors being identified
•  Plan confirmed by Padmakumar ES, Director, SDSC
•  Designed to handle 12,000–14,000 kg class satellites
•  Supports heavy-lift launch vehicles and future mission needs
•  Enables parallel launch preparations and faster turnaround
•  Adds backup capability, improving operational resilience
•  Enhances readiness for human spaceflight and large comsats
•  Strengthens India’s role in commercial and strategic launches
•  Builds on Shriharikota’s legacy since 1971; SDSC renamed in 2002