ISRO’s upcoming Kulasekarapattinam Spaceport in Tamil Nadu’s Tuticorin district is set to become India’s second launch site by December 2026. This new launch complex will boost India’s space capacity, enabling up to 25 Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) launches annually, and ease operational pressure on the main Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota.
The foundation stone was laid in February 2024 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with construction progressing rapidly under ISRO Chairman V Narayanan.
About the Kulasekarapattinam Spaceport
- Location: Coastal village of Kulasekarapattinam, Tuticorin district, Tamil Nadu
- Area: Spread across 2,300 acres
- Completion Target: December 2026
- Launch Capacity: 20–25 SSLV launches per year
- Focus: Dedicated facility primarily for launching Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLVs)
- Foundation Stone: Laid by PM Narendra Modi in February 2024
- ISRO Chief: V Narayan
Once operational, the spaceport will decentralize launches, support India’s commercial, defence, and academic space needs, and allow more frequent missions.
Why a Second Launch Complex in Kulasekarapattinam?
1. Specialization in SSLVs
- SSLVs are compact, cost-effective rockets suited for launching small satellites and rapid deployment missions.
- Each SSLV can carry up to 500 kg to an altitude of 400 km, perfect for Earth observation and communication satellites.
- The site allows frequent, on-demand launches for commercial clients and government needs.
2. Geographical Advantage
- Coastal location allows straight southward launches, avoiding land overflight and enabling direct polar and sun-synchronous orbits.
- Short launch trajectory reduces risk and increases mission efficiency.
3. Regional Impact
- Expected to create skilled jobs and boost the local economy in southern Tamil Nadu.
- Will attract aerospace investments and enhance regional STEM education and research.
The new spaceport’s proximity to ISRO’s Propulsion Research Complex in Mahendragiri brings operational synergy.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- Location: Kulasekarapattinam, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu
- Launch Capacity: 20–25 launches per year (mostly SSLVs)
- Vehicle Type: Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)
- Payload: Up to 500 kg per launch to LEO (Low Earth Orbit)
- Operational By: December 2026
- Current main site: Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh
- ISRO Chief: V Narayan
- Supports India’s goal of high-frequency, decentralized, and commercial satellite launches.
