ISRO targets 7 launches this fiscal year; Next mission within two months, says Chairman V Narayanan
Speaking at the press conference following the historic first orbital launch of Skyroot Aerospace’s Vikram-1 rocket, Narayanan stated that two satellites have already been fully constructed, while five to six satellites are in the final stages of integration.
“We have targeted at least seven launches this financial year. We will start the launch within two months,” Narayanan said.
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The space agency’s upcoming operational schedule includes planned satellite launches as well as the first uncrewed mission under the Gaganyaan human spaceflight program.
Hailing the successful flight of private venture Skyroot Aerospace’s Vikram-1 as a milestone, the ISRO chief praised the young team, whose average age was 28, for achieving a successful orbital mission in their first attempt. He stated that the breakthrough brought great satisfaction to the local space community and contributed greatly to the “Bharat 2047” vision.
Incidentally, Skyroot Aerospace co-founders Pawan Kumar Chandana and Naga Bharat Daka were also former ISRO scientists. Speaking to PTI Videos later, Narayanan likened ISRO’s sense of pride to that of parents who witness their children succeeding.
“We are like parents who are excited and proud to see their children study well and take first place,” he said.
Reflecting on the evolution of the domestic space ecosystem, ISRO Chairman highlighted the impact of policy structural updates. “In 2020, the space sector reform was brought, and the startup companies and private sector were allowed to carry out the activities in the space area. Today, for the first time in the country, a private rocket successfully placed the satellite in orbit,” he said, adding that the milestone will drive substantial economic growth and foster a strong scientific temper among the youth.
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He pointed out that when the policy was implemented, there was only one startup. “There are 400 startups today,” he added.
Responding to a question about India’s infrastructure capacity to sustain high-frequency private and commercial launches, Narayanan announced that ISRO plans to commission its second launch complex at Kulasekarapattinam in the next six months.
He pointed out that although Sriharikota has extensive capabilities, deploying huge launch pads for small satellites in the 300 kg to 350 kg category is sub-optimal from a logistics perspective.
“The first launches will be made from here. Then, we are building the second launch complex in Kulasekarapattinam. It is also being prepared. We will commission it within this financial year. [it]Narayanan added that the facility is currently in its final stages. Once active, launch tracking and distribution will be optimized between both spaceports based on specific payload requirements, he added.
