In a major stride towards strengthening India’s space capabilities, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has given its approval for the development of the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV). This project is aimed at transforming India’s space transportation system, boosting payload capacity, and bringing down the cost of access to space through reusable technology.
Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) – A Game Changer
The NGLV is designed to be a highly efficient and cost-effective solution, offering a threefold increase in payload capacity compared to the current LVM3 (Launch Vehicle Mark-3). With reusability as a core feature, this cutting-edge launch vehicle promises to significantly reduce the cost per launch, making space exploration more commercially viable for India. It also integrates advanced modular green propulsion systems, making it an environmentally friendly choice for future space missions.
Key Features of NGLV
- Payload Capability: NGLV will be capable of launching up to 30 tonnes to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), a substantial improvement over existing systems that can currently handle a maximum of 10 tonnes.
- Cost Efficiency: Despite its threefold increase in payload capacity, the NGLV will operate at just 1.5 times the cost of the current LVM3, thanks to its reusable first stage.
- Reusability: The NGLV’s first stage is designed to be reusable, reducing the cost of launches and offering low-cost access to space for both national and commercial missions.
- Green Propulsion Systems: The vehicle will utilize modular green propulsion technologies, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Vision for Amrit Kaal – A New Era for India's Space Program
The development of the NGLV aligns with the Government's long-term vision of establishing and operating the Bharatiya Antariksh Station, India’s independent space station, and achieving the milestone of an Indian crewed lunar landing by 2040. As India enters Amrit Kaal, the need for advanced, human-rated launch vehicles is paramount to achieving these ambitious goals.
India has already attained self-reliance in launching satellites to LEO and Geo-Synchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) through its existing fleet of launch vehicles, including the PSLV, GSLV, LVM3, and SSLV. The NGLV will take this capability to new heights by enabling missions with higher payloads, lower costs, and the potential for human spaceflight.
Path to Development – Industry Collaboration and Timelines
The NGLV project will be executed in close collaboration with the Indian space industry, which will play a pivotal role in building manufacturing capacity from the outset. This approach ensures a seamless transition from the development phase to operational readiness.
The project will see the launch of three developmental flights—D1, D2, and D3—culminating in a fully operational system within 96 months (8 years). The total project cost of ₹8,240 crore has been approved, covering development, the three demonstration flights, essential infrastructure, and launch campaign expenses.
Strengthening India's Space Ecosystem
The NGLV project is a leap forward in India’s space journey, providing the capability to support a wide range of missions, including:
- Human spaceflights to the Bharatiya Antariksh Station.
- Lunar and interplanetary exploration missions.
- Launch of communication and earth observation satellite constellations to LEO.
The introduction of NGLV will not only strengthen India's space exploration capabilities but also foster the growth of the country’s space ecosystem. This will empower Indian industries, promote commercial opportunities in space, and place India at the forefront of global space technology.
As India moves towards realizing its space station dream and lunar landing aspirations, the NGLV stands as a pivotal innovation that will drive the nation’s space missions forward, benefitting the entire space ecosystem in the country.
Conclusion – A Step Closer to the Stars
The development of the Next Generation Launch Vehicle marks a significant leap in India’s space program, paving the way for a future where India leads in both national and commercial space ventures. By achieving higher payload capacities, lowering costs, and integrating sustainable propulsion systems, ISRO’s NGLV is set to redefine the way India approaches space exploration and technology in the coming decades.