Cabinet Approves Continuation of Phase 4 of Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV)

Phase 4 will enable the launch of satellites for geo-imaging, navigation, data relay communication and space sciences

The Union Cabinet on April 15 approved the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) continuation programme Phase-4, which consists of five launches during 2021-2024, a press release by the government said.

The Phase 4 of GSLV programme will enable the launch of 2 tonne class of satellites for geo-imaging, navigation, data relay communication and space sciences.

The programmed continuation will incur financial burden of Rs. 2729.13 crores and includes the cost of five GSLV vehicles, essential facility augmentation, programme management, and launch campaign along with the additional funds required for meeting the scope of the ongoing GSLV continuation programmed, the statement said.

Initially sanctioned in 2003, two phases of the GSLV continuation programme have already been completed while the third is in progress. The Phase 4 of the programme will meet the launch requirement of satellites for providing critical satellite navigation services, data relay communication for supporting the Indian human spaceflight programme and the next interplanetary mission to Mars. This will also ensure the continuity of production in Indian industry.




This phase will meet the demand for the launch of satellites at a frequency up to two launches per year, with maximal participation by the Indian industry. All the operational flights would be completed during the period 2021-24.

The operationalisation of GSLV has made the country self-reliant in the launching capability of 2 tonne class of satellites for communication & meteorological satellites. The GSLV continuation programme will sustain & strengthen the capability and self-reliance in the launching of similar satellites for national requirements including next generation navigation satellites, data relay communication satellites and interplanetary missions.

GSLV has enabled independent access to space for 2 tonne class of satellites to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). One of the very significant outcomes of the GSLV continuation programme is the mastering of the highly complex cryogenic propulsion technology, which is an essential technological capability to launch communication satellites to GTO. This has also paved the way for the development of a high thrust cryogenic engine & stage for the next generation launch vehicle, GSLV Mk-lll.

With the recent successful launch of GSLV-F11 on 19 December 2018, GSLV has successfully orbited 10 national satellites. GSLV with the indigenous Cryogenic Upper Stage has established itself as a reliable launch vehicle for communication, navigation and meteorological satellites and also to undertake future interplanetary missions.

 

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