SOURCE: AFI
The Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) workhorse rocket, the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), is set to make history as the first-ever privately built version of the launch vehicle takes flight. According to D Radhakrishnan, the chief of NewSpace India Limited, this maiden launch is anticipated to occur by the end of 2024.
The industry consortium of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Larsen & Toubro (L&T) is spearheading the development of the private PSLV, known as the PSLV-XL N1. The consortium has successfully completed several critical stages, including the realization of solid motors, last year.
The contract for the private manufacture of the PSLV was inked in 2022 during the Bengaluru Space Expo by the HAL and L&T consortium. This agreement mandates the end-to-end production of five PSLV XL rockets.
The successful launch of the privately built PSLV will mark a significant milestone for India’s space sector, demonstrating the country’s capability to manufacture complex launch vehicles independently. It also signifies a strategic shift towards private sector participation in the space industry, opening up new avenues for innovation and commercialization.