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Private Production of the LVM3 Could Yield a Space Sector Boom
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Context
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is planning to allow the private sector to produce the Launch Vehicle Mark-III (LVM3), India’s most powerful launch vehicle. This move is similar to the retirement of NASA’s Space Shuttle program, which led to a boom in the US commercial space sector.
Impact on Infrastructure and Global Demand
- Transfer of Technical Knowledge: The transfer of technical knowledge from ISRO to the private sector for LVM3 production will spread crucial space expertise. These capabilities could then strengthen India’s supply of launch vehicles to meet growing global demand for launch services.
- Increasing Production: Currently, ISRO makes two LVM3s per year, but by leveraging the private sector’s advantages, the goal is to increase this number to six. This enhancement will expedite ISRO’s plans and ensure timely launch schedules.
- Global Opportunity: A shortage in launch services worldwide presents an opportunity for India. Increasing the frequency of LVM3 flights for exclusive use or ride-sharing will draw greater interest from clients.
Future Endeavors and Achievements
- Future Goals: ISRO can focus on goals that include human spaceflight for the forthcoming Gaganyaan mission, building a Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV), a more advanced, partially reusable heavy launch vehicle, and eventually placing an Indian space station in the LEO.
- Successful Launch: In 2022, ISRO’s commercial arm successfully launched the LVM3 for a large commercial order, deploying 36 satellites to LEO. The private sector’s involvement will make more such missions possible.
- Driving Innovation: ISRO is testing semi-cryogenic technology to boost the LVM3’s lift capacity and range. This is currently the most cost-efficient way to achieve orbit.
Potential for Private Sector Innovations
- Transfer of Technical Knowledge: ISRO’s transfer of LVM3 production knowledge will disseminate critical space expertise across India’s private sector, enhancing launch vehicle supply to meet global demand.
- Scaling Production: Leveraging private sector capabilities aims to increase LVM3 production from two to six annually, expediting ISRO’s plans and ensuring timely launches.
- Innovation and Cost Efficiency: Private firms can build on ISRO’s innovations, enhancing LVM3’s capabilities and introducing cost-efficient solutions for multiple payload deliveries.
UPSC Mains Questions:
Q. Evaluate the role of policy reforms since 2020 in fostering private sector participation in India’s space sector. How can these reforms boost India’s position in the global space market?
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