CHENNAI: ISRO is in the process of developing a third launch pad at the Shriharikota spaceport and is currently identifying the right vendors for it, a top scientist said. Shriharikota complex, which covers an area of 175 sq km, has been serving the Bengaluru-headquartered space agency for the launch of various satellites using different launch vehicles.

“To move ahead with its plan of placing bigger satellites weighing over 12,000 – 14,000 kg in various orbits in space, ISRO requires bigger launch vehicles,” said Padmakumar ES, director and distinguished scientist of Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Shriharikota.

“We plan to develop, install and commission a third launch pad in four years. We’re starting the procurement phase and identifying the right vendors to deliver us the support that is needed for the mega project.”

The space centre at Shriharikota provides world-class launch base infrastructure for national and international customers in accomplishing diverse launch vehicle-satellite missions for remote sensing, communication, navigation and scientific purposes.

The spaceport started its operation in October 1971 with the launch of the sounding rocket Rohini-125. Since then, the facilities here have been gradually expanded to meet the growing needs of the space agency.