Third launch pad to be set up at Sriharikota for Gaganyaan mission

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is setting up third launch pad at Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh to undertake Gaganyaan manned space flight programme.
ISRO currently has two launch pads which are already full. Third launch pad is being set up for the human space flight. It will be ready in time for the mission.
In addition to this, ISRO is scouting for location on western sea coast near Gujarat to set up another launch pad for Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLV).

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is setting up third launch pad at Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh to undertake Gaganyaan manned space flight programme.
ISRO currently has two launch pads which are already full. Third launch pad is being set up for the human space flight. It will be ready in time for the mission.
In addition to this, ISRO is scouting for location on western sea coast near Gujarat to set up another launch pad for Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLV).

Gaganyaan Mission was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his 72nd Independence Day speech this year.
It will be India’s first manned space mission.
As a part of the mission, India is planning to send three humans (Gaganyatris) into space i.e. in low earth orbit (LEO) by 2022 i.e. by 75th Independence Day for period of five to seven days.
During the mission, the crew of three astronauts will conduct experiments on microgravity in space. The crew will be selected jointly by Indian Air Force (IAF) and ISRO after which they will undergo training for two-three years.
ISRO will use its GSLV Mk-III launch vehicle for the mission which can carry heavier payload of Gaganyaan. This launch vehicle will take off from the new launch pad of ISRO.
India will be the fourth nation in world after USA, Russia and China to launch human spaceflight mission.
India is collaborating with France for successful completion of the mission. India will gain from French expertise in the field of space medicine, astronaut health monitoring, life support, radiation protection, space debris protection and personal hygiene systems.

Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLV)

ISRO is developing SSLV to offer affordable launch options for smaller satellites through ANTRIX, the space agency’s commercial arm.
The SSLV is expected to reduce launch time as well as cost less to launch small satellites, which are much in demand.
ISRO currently piggybacks smaller satellites on Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle abbreviated (GSLV) along with bigger satellites.

It will facilitate science and technology levels in the country and inspiring the youth by developing scientific temper in them.
It will serve as a national project involving several institutes, academia and industry.
It will lead to development of technology for social benefits and improving international collaboration.