IN-SPACe to Hand Over ISRO's SLC Complex to Private Sector
The space regulator and promoter IN-SPACe has initiated the transfer of operations and management of Isro’s Rs.986-crore Small Satellite Launch Complex (SLC) located in Kulasekarapattinam, Tamil Nadu, to the private sector, marking another move towards enhancing the country’s launch infrastructure for industry.
The EOI aims to solicit responses from Indian industries that have proven experience in executing and managing extensive, multidisciplinary infrastructure and operations projects.
Also Read: Center Announces 1,500 CDSCO Posts for Medical Device Regulation
The SLC is a component of the new spaceport under construction by Isro at Kulasekarapattinam, India's second launch center. Covering approximately 2,233 acres, the spaceport is anticipated to manage launches of Isro's Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) alongside similar launch vehicles created by private firms.
According to the government's original plans, private launch vehicle operators were to conduct launches from the facility once the spaceport became operational. IN-SPACe's recent step advances the private-sector involvement by looking for an industry partner to oversee the complex's operations and maintenance. The chosen entity will handle the comprehensive management of the facility, encompassing launch campaign activities, infrastructure and systems maintenance, safety and security, mission preparedness, asset management, logistics, and collaboration with Isro, IN-SPACe, and launch clients.
Isro will first offer technical and operational assistance to aid the private operator in developing the necessary skills. To ensure a seamless transition and skill enhancement, Isro will offer the chosen entity necessary technical advice, operational support, training, and support assistance for a specified duration until the provision of three launch services by the selected entity to launch vehicle operators, or one year, whichever comes first, according to IN-SPACe.
Situated on the Tamil Nadu coastline, approximately 55 km from Thoothukudi, the Kulasekarapattinam location is tailored for small satellite launches, providing a more effective trajectory for missions targeting polar and Sun-synchronous orbits.
In contrast to launches from Sriharikota, rockets launched from Kulasekarapattinam can proceed directly south over the Indian Ocean without executing a dog-leg maneuver to steer clear of flying above Sri Lanka. The more direct path can enhance payload capability and lower fuel needs, making launches more efficient, especially for the SSLV.
Also Read: Sula Vineyards Names Chaitanya Rathi as Non-Executive Director
The facility is also built to accommodate a greater launch frequency, featuring reduced turnaround times between missions. This enhances the SSLV, created by Isro for the on-demand deployment of small satellites and needs fewer staff and shorter assembly durations compared to larger launch systems.
The SSLV, along with the new launch facility, aims to cater to the increasing demand in India and internationally for dedicated small satellite launches. The initiative is part of a larger strategy by IN-SPACe to shift Isro-created technologies and facilities to the private sector.
In the past few months, the agency has sought industry involvement for the transfer of technologies associated with Isro's PSLV and LVM-3 launch vehicles. The SSLV technology has been obtained by the defence public sector company Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) for Rs 511 crore.
IN-SPACe is additionally providing access to Isro's terrestrial infrastructure. In June, it called on private firms to create and manage ground stations at the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) campus in Shadnagar near Hyderabad. The agency intends to choose as many as three Indian firms for the facility.
Also Read: Nielsen to Acquire DoubleVerify for $2.15 Billion
The regulator is also developing new programs designed to assist private space firms and other non-government organizations, which will include subsidies between 30 percent and 100 percent for sectors like launch services, technology transfer, satellite data, and utilization of Isro facilities.
The initiative demonstrates the government's wider strategy to transition more space activities and infrastructure to private operators, while maintaining Isro’s role in offering technical expertise and aiding the growth of India's commercial space sector.