IN-SPACe moves to privatise operations of Rs 986 cr spaceport

IN-SPACe, the Indian government’s space promotion and regulatory body, has initiated efforts to privatise the operations of the Rs 986 crore Small Satellite Launch Complex (SLC) under development at Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu. This marks a key step towards transitioning the management of the facility to the private sector, which is intended to enhance efficiency and expand capacity for small satellite launches. The move follows broader initiatives aimed at fostering private participation in India’s rapidly evolving space programme. The SLC, part of the second spaceport being constructed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro), spans approximately 2,233 acres and is designed specifically for launches involving small rockets. Initially planned to serve as a secondary launch site, the facility is now set to become a hub for commercial activity once its operations are handed over. According to IN-SPACe, the organisation has issued an Expression of Interest (EoI) seeking proposals from eligible Indian entities capable of operating and managing the launch complex. The goal is to identify a suitable industry partner who can oversee all aspects of the facility, including launch campaigns, maintenance, safety protocols, and coordination with Isro and other stakeholders. Isro will provide the selected entity with technical guidance, operational support, training, and hands-on assistance during the transition phase. This support will last until either the successful execution of three launch services by the chosen operator or one year, whichever comes first. The selected company will assume responsibility for end-to-end management of the launch complex, ensuring seamless operations and compliance with established standards. This approach aims to ensure continuity and reliability in the delivery of launch services, leveraging both public and private expertise. Located along the Tamil Nadu coastline, roughly 55 kilometres from Thoothukudi, the Kulasekarapattinam spaceport offers distinct advantages over existing launch sites such as Sriharikota. Rockets launched from this location can travel directly south over the Indian Ocean, eliminating the need for a dog-leg maneuver typically required to avoid overflights of Sri Lanka. This route enhances payload capacity, reduces fuel consumption, and increases overall mission efficiency, particularly beneficial for the SSLV, which was designed for rapid, on-demand launches of small satellites. The launch complex is also engineered for a high launch frequency, enabling quicker turnaround between missions, which aligns with the growing demand for frequent small satellite deployments. In recent months, IN-SPACe has taken steps to gradually involve the private sector in critical aspects of India’s space infrastructure. It has previously invited industry participants to take over the technologies associated with the PSLV and LVM-3 launch vehicles, while the SSLV technology has already been transferred to the Defence PSU Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for Rs 511 crore. Additionally, in June, the agency extended an invitation to private firms to develop and operate ground stations within the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) in Hyderabad. The current EoI builds on these efforts, aiming to create a more integrated and commercially viable space ecosystem. Beyond the immediate operational shift, IN-SPACe has announced plans to introduce two new subsidy schemes targeting private space companies and non-governmental entities. These programmes will offer financial incentives ranging from 30% to 100% on costs related to launch services, technology transfer, satellite data access, and usage of Isro facilities. Such measures are expected to stimulate innovation and investment in the country’s burgeoning space industry.