Daily Current Affairs : 8-October-2024

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is taking a significant step forward in enhancing its space exploration capabilities by building a third launch pad at its Sriharikota facility in Andhra Pradesh. This new addition is aimed at supporting emerging space technologies like the New Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV), while also improving redundancy for critical space missions.

Existing Launch Pads in India

Currently, ISRO operates two major launch pads at Sriharikota:

  • First Launch Pad (FLP): This pad is primarily used for launching the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). It has been a reliable platform for launching a wide range of satellite missions.
  • Second Launch Pad (SLP): The second pad is used for the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) and GSLV Mk III (LVM-3) missions, which are designed for heavier payloads and more complex missions.

Key Features of the Third Launch Pad

The third launch pad brings several advanced features that will help ISRO achieve its ambitious goals in space exploration.

1. Redundancy and Backup

One of the primary functions of the third launch pad is to act as a backup for GSLV launches. If there are any issues or delays with the second pad, the third pad will ensure that GSLV missions can continue without interruptions. This is critical for maintaining a steady launch schedule for both national and international satellite launches.

2. Horizontal Integration for NGLV

The third pad is specifically designed to support the assembly of the New Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV). Unlike traditional vertical integration, which is time-consuming, horizontal assembly allows for better handling of complex components, especially liquid engine boosters. This improves the efficiency of assembly and reduces overall launch preparation time.

3. Increased Payload Capacity

The third launch pad will support the NGLV’s higher payload capacity. The NGLV is designed to carry up to 20 tonnes to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and 9 tonnes to Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO), which is a significant increase compared to the current payload capacity of ISRO’s vehicles. This will enable ISRO to undertake more ambitious missions, including interplanetary exploration and heavier satellite launches.

4. Integrated Stage Testing

Unlike earlier setups where stage testing was conducted at Mahendragiri, the third launch pad will feature integrated stage testing facilities directly on the pad itself. This streamlines operations, making the entire launch preparation process faster and more efficient.

Important Points:

ISRO is building a third launch pad at Sriharikota to enhance its space capabilities and support emerging technologies like the New Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV).

Existing Launch Pads:

  • First Launch Pad (FLP): Used for PSLV missions.
  • Second Launch Pad (SLP): Used for GSLV and GSLV Mk III (LVM-3) missions.

Key Features of the Third Launch Pad:

  • Redundancy: Acts as a backup to ensure uninterrupted GSLV launches if the second pad faces issues.
  • Horizontal Integration: Designed for the efficient horizontal assembly of the NGLV, especially for liquid engine boosters.
  • Increased Payload Capacity: Supports the NGLV, capable of carrying 20 tonnes to LEO and 9 tonnes to GTO.
  • Integrated Stage Testing: Features stage testing facilities directly at the pad, streamlining operations compared to earlier setups.

Benefits: The new pad increases ISRO’s launch flexibility, enhances operational efficiency, and allows for more complex and heavier missions.

Why In News

ISRO is expanding its space capabilities by establishing a third launch pad at Sriharikota, aiming to support new technologies like the New Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV), while enhancing redundancy for critical missions and future space endeavors. This strategic development will also position ISRO to undertake more ambitious and diverse missions, reinforcing India’s growing role in global space exploration.

MCQs about ISRO Expands Space Capabilities with New Launch Pad

  1. What is the primary purpose of ISRO’s third launch pad at Sriharikota?
    A. To launch the PSLV missions
    B. To support the New Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV)
    C. To test rocket engines
    D. To improve the first launch pad
    Correct Answer: B. To support the New Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV)
    Explanation: The third launch pad is designed primarily to support the NGLV, which includes features like horizontal integration and increased payload capacity for more complex missions.
  2. How does the third launch pad enhance redundancy for ISRO’s missions?
    A. By supporting vertical integration
    B. By acting as a backup for GSLV launches
    C. By testing rocket components
    D. By launching smaller payloads
    Correct Answer: B. By acting as a backup for GSLV launches
    Explanation: The third launch pad acts as a backup to ensure uninterrupted GSLV launches in case there are issues with the second pad, maintaining the mission schedule.
  3. What new feature does the third launch pad include to improve operational efficiency?
    A. Vertical engine assembly
    B. Integrated stage testing facilities directly at the pad
    C. Enhanced launch vehicle designs
    D. Extended payload testing
    Correct Answer: B. Integrated stage testing facilities directly at the pad
    Explanation: The third launch pad will feature integrated stage testing facilities, streamlining the launch preparation process and making it more efficient compared to previous setups where testing was done elsewhere.
  4. What is the increased payload capacity of the NGLV supported by the third launch pad?
    A. 10 tonnes to LEO, 5 tonnes to GTO
    B. 15 tonnes to LEO, 8 tonnes to GTO
    C. 20 tonnes to LEO, 9 tonnes to GTO
    D. 25 tonnes to LEO, 10 tonnes to GTO
    Correct Answer: C. 20 tonnes to LEO, 9 tonnes to GTO
    Explanation: The NGLV supported by the third launch pad can carry up to 20 tonnes to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and 9 tonnes to Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO), a significant increase in payload capacity compared to existing vehicles.

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