India’s upcoming spaceport offers direct launch paths over the ocean, ideal for SSLV and private missions.
The national space agency, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has begun construction of a dedicated launch pad for its Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) at Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu’s Thoothukudi district. This marks a key phase in the development of India’s second spaceport, aimed at expanding launch capacity and supporting the country’s growing small satellite market.
The SSLV launch pad is part of a larger complex designed to handle frequent, low-cost launches for payloads up to 500 kg. It will include a mobile launch structure, integration and checkout facilities, telemetry and command systems, and safety infrastructure. The pad is being built by experts from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre-Sriharikota Range (SDSC-SHAR), with support from other ISRO centres and industry partners. SDSC-SHAR is ISRO’s primary launch site.
Located near Thoothukudi, the spaceport offers clear launch paths over the Indian Ocean, allowing for safe and efficient orbital placement. The site is well-suited for SSLV missions, sounding rockets, and future launches by private companies.
The SSLV launch pad is one of 33 major facilities planned for the spaceport, with 32 already under construction. The first sounding rocket launch is expected by December 2025, and full operational readiness is targeted for late 2026.
By building SSLV-specific infrastructure at Thoothukudi, ISRO is creating a flexible launch base that can support both government and commercial missions. The move is expected to reduce turnaround times, improve access for smaller payloads, and strengthen India’s position in the global space sector.