ISRO begins development of next-gen launch vehicle 'Soorya'
What's the story
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has started designing its next-generation launch vehicle (NGLV), Soorya. The project has been funded and a dedicated team is already working on it. Padmakumar E S, Director of ISRO Inertial Systems Unit in Thiruvananthapuram, disclosed this during the National Science Day celebration in the city.
Mission capabilities
Soorya to support future human missions, lunar exploration
The Soorya vehicle is being developed in two variants, one for low Earth orbit (LEO) and the other for geosynchronous transfer orbit (GTO). It will have a three-stage design with nine engines in the first stage and two in the second. The project is expected to be completed in seven years and will undergo three tests before becoming fully operational.
Vehicle specifications
Payload capacities and recovery features
The Soorya launch vehicle will boast an expendable payload capacity of 23.4 tons for LEO and 9.6 tons for GTO missions. It will also offer a recoverable payload capacity of 14.8 tons to LEO and 5.5 tons for GTO missions, with the first stage being recoverable. These capabilities will support future human missions as well as ISRO's lunar exploration endeavors, Padmakumar E S said.
Project funding
ISRO's vision and funding for the project
In September 2024, the Union Cabinet gave a nod for the development of NGLV, marking a major step toward establishing and operating Bharatiya Antariks Station. The total fund approved for the project is ₹8,240 crore. This budget covers development costs, three developmental flights, essential facility establishment, program management, and launch campaign expenses.