The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is preparing to begin rocket launches from its new spaceport at Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu in 2027. The facility, being developed in Thoothukudi district, is designed primarily to support Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLVs) and expand India’s capacity for launching small satellites.
ISRO Chairman V Narayanan met Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay to discuss the project’s progress and preparations for commencing launch operations. The meeting also focused on the state government’s support for the spaceport and the infrastructure required to make it operational.
Kulasekarapattinam Spaceport to Support SSLV Launches
The new facility is being developed at Kulasekarapattinam, near the southern tip of Tamil Nadu. Unlike the existing Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota, the location offers a more direct southward trajectory over the sea.
This is particularly useful for SSLV missions carrying small satellites into low Earth orbit. Launches from Sriharikota often require rockets to follow a curved trajectory to avoid flying over Sri Lanka. The Kulasekarapattinam location is expected to reduce this requirement, helping improve launch efficiency and reduce operational costs.
The spaceport is planned across approximately 2,350 acres and will include launch infrastructure, vehicle assembly facilities and supporting systems.
Tamil Nadu’s Growing Space Industry Ambitions
The project is expected to strengthen Tamil Nadu’s position in India’s expanding space and aerospace sector. The state has been working to attract investments in satellite manufacturing, launch-related services and aerospace components.
The new spaceport is also expected to support the growing commercial demand for small satellite launches, particularly from private space companies and international customers.
With the launch facility moving towards operational readiness, Tamil Nadu is set to become an important part of India’s expanding space infrastructure.
