India’s space program is expanding fast, and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) now aims to complete its third launch pad by March 2029. This major facility is coming up at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. It was approved in January 2025, with a budget of nearly ₹4,000 crore. The new pad is designed specially for India’s Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLV) and advanced rockets like the Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3) with semi-cryogenic engines. These rockets will be able to carry much heavier satellites—up to 30,000kg into orbit—marking a big jump from what India’s current launch pads can handle.
Key Milestones and Features
ISRO and government officials have set clear steps to get the pad ready:
- Civil construction: by May 2028
- Fluid and fuel systems: by July 2028
- Pad infrastructure: by September 2028
- Final commissioning: March 2029
The pad will feature improved safety systems, modern fueling stations for advanced propellants, and its own rocket assembly complex, allowing faster mission preparations. Automation and new technology will help manage both satellite launches and future astronaut missions. ISRO is also working closely with private Indian companies and MSMEs to build parts of the launch pad. This supports the government’s “Make in India” and self-reliance goals.
Helping India Reach Further in Space
The Third Launch Pad is much more than a construction project. It gives India extra power to launch more missions, from commercial satellites to major scientific projects. It brings flexibility—if one pad needs repairs, others can be used. The new pad will be vital for upcoming human spaceflight missions like Gaganyaan, future lunar missions, and plans for India’s own space station by 2035. By 2029, India will be ready to launch bigger rockets and take bigger steps in international space exploration.