NEW DELHI: Isro has started the process to develop a third launchpad at the Sriharikota spaceport as it gears up for future launches of heavy satellites.The agency is currently identifying right vendors for it, a senior scientist said. To move ahead with its plan of placing bigger satellites, weighing over 12,000-14,000 kg, in various orbits in space, Isro requires bigger launch vehicles, Padmakumar ES, director and distinguished scientist of Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, said. To serve this purpose, Isro is planning a third launchpad, he said. “We plan to develop, install and commission a third launchpad in four years. Activities are going on for that,” he recently told the media.On Jan 16, 2025, the Union cabinet had approved the establishment of the third launchpad (TLP) at the Sriharikota launch complex, spread over about 175 sq km and located around 135 km east of Chennai. Worth Rs 3,984.8 crore, the launchpad project is targeted for completion within four years, with full operational readiness projected by March 2029. Critical milestones include civil works by May 2028, fluid and propellant systems by July 2028, and launch facility integration by Sept 2028.The TLP will cater to Next Generation Launch Vehicles and will support as standby launchpad for the existing two launchpads — first launchpad (serving PSLV and SSLV missions since 1993) and second launchpad (operational since 2003 for GSLV and LVM3 missions), significantly expanding launch frequency and redundancy.The TLP will be realised with maximum industry participation fully utilising Isro’s experience in establishing earlier launchpads and maximally sharing existing launch complex facilities. It will position India among leading spacefaring nations with advanced infrastructure capable of supporting next-generation rockets. This has far-reaching implications for commercial launch services, space exploration and international partnerships.