India's 1st commercial PSLV rocket to be launched next year
What's the story
India's first-ever commercially-built Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) rocket, developed by the HAL-L&T consortium, is gearing up for its first mission. The HAL-L&T consortium, a joint venture of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Larsen & Toubro, has indigenously developed the PSLV. A top L&T executive confirmed that this innovative vehicle will be used to launch the Oceansat satellite early next year.
Milestone achievement
A new chapter in India's space journey
The HAL-L&T consortium's PSLV rocket is a major milestone in India's space journey. It was developed as part of a contract signed with ISRO in 2022 for the end-to-end production of five PSLV-XL rockets. The deal is part of ISRO's strategy to transfer proven rocket production to industry players while it concentrates on new missions and research.
Overcoming hurdles
HAL-L&T consortium's PSLV rocket faces challenges
The HAL-L&T consortium has faced some challenges in manufacturing certain components of the launch systems. However, ISRO has stepped in to help resolve these issues. Despite these hurdles, the consortium is optimistic about its future prospects and has been receiving inquiries for potential launch opportunities from both domestic and international clients.
Business expansion
HAL to fully own and operate SSLV business
In addition to the PSLV project, ISRO has also transferred technology for the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) to HAL. This move will allow HAL to fully own and operate the SSLV business. The transfer of technology marks another step in India's space journey, as it opens up more opportunities for private sector involvement in space missions.