SSC CPO 2025 PYQ — Question 82

Answer: Handling the increasing launch frequency and capacity for missions involving SSLV, Gaganyaan, and commercial payloads (Option 4).

Explanation:

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has proposed a Third Launch Pad (TLP) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota, primarily for the following reasons:
• Launch Frequency: ISRO has a growing queue of satellite launches. Having a third launch pad will enable the simultaneous preparation of multiple missions.
• Gaganyaan Mission: India's human spaceflight program requires specialized facilities and safety standards, which can be incorporated into the third launch pad.
• Support for SSLV: Dedicated infrastructure is required to cater to the rapidly expanding commercial market for Small Satellite Launch Vehicles.
• Backup and Diversification: If a technical glitch occurs at one of the existing launch pads, the third pad will ensure the continuity of missions.

Additional Points:

• Current Status: Currently, there are two functional launch pads at Sriharikota.
• Kulasekharapatnam: A new 'Launch Port' is also being developed at Kulasekharapatnam in Tamil Nadu, specifically for small satellites (SSLV), to save fuel and enable direct southward launches.
• Commercial Benefits: More launch pads are essential to boost revenue through the launch of foreign satellites via NewSpace India Limited (NSIL).

Potential Q&A:

Question 1: In which Indian state is the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) located?

Answer: Andhra Pradesh (Sriharikota Island).

Question 2: What is the primary objective of the 'Gaganyaan' mission?

Answer: To safely send Indian astronauts (Gaganauts) into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and bring them back.

Question 3: Which ISRO rocket is known as 'Baahubali' and is capable of carrying heavy payloads? Answer: LVM3 (formerly known as GSLV Mk-III).