Prime Minister (PM) inaugurates three Space Infrastructure Projects in Kerala worth around Rs 1800 crores | Current Affairs | Vision IAS
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Prime Minister (PM) inaugurates three Space Infrastructure Projects in Kerala worth around Rs 1800 crores

Posted 28 Feb 2024

2 min read

  • During PM’s visit to Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) in Thiruvananthapuram, projects were launched to reform country’s space sector.
  • Three projects include 
    • SLV Integration Facility (PIF) at Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota to boost frequency of Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) launches from 6 to 15 per year.
      • It also caters to launches of Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) and other small launch vehicles designed by private space companies.
      • PSLV is a four-stage launch vehicle capable of launching satellites into Geosynchronous and Geostationary orbits.
      • SSLV is a 3-stage Launch Vehicle capable of launching satellites in low earth orbit at low cost.
    • Semi-cryogenics Integrated Engine and Stage Test facility at ISRO Propulsion Complex at Mahendragiri will enable development of semi-cryogenic engines and stages, which will increase payload capability of present launch vehicles
      • Facility is equipped with liquid Oxygen and kerosene supply systems to test engines up to 200 tons of thrust.
    • Trisonic Wind Tunnel at VSSC for aerodynamic testing for characterisation of rockets and aircraft during flight in atmospheric regime.
  • PM also reviewed Gaganyaan Mission (India’s first human spaceflight mission) progress and bestowed ‘astronaut wings’ to four astronaut-designates, which symbolize trust, courage, and discipline.

About VSSC

  • It is the lead Centre of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) under Department of Space.
  • Named in memory of Dr Vikram A Sarabhai (father of Indian Space Programme).
  • Virtual Launch Control Centre (VLCC) at VSSC played an important role in launch of LVM3 vehicle carrying Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft.
  • VLCC remotely carries out system checks on launch vehicle prior to mission.
  • Tags :
  • Gaganyaan
  • Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre
  • SLV Integration Facility
  • Space sector
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