Chennai, Oct 16: ISRO Chairman and Department of Space Secretary S. Somanath met with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to extend thanks for the state’s recognition of ISRO scientists. During the meeting at the State Secretariat, Mr. Somanath presented CM Stalin with a model of Chandrayaan-3, India’s third Lunar Mission.
The meeting also included discussions on ISRO-related activities in Tamil Nadu. CM Stalin shared his appreciation on Twitter, stating, ‘Had a constructive meeting with @isro chairman Thiru. S. Somanath. He gifted me with a #Chandrayaan model, a testament to Tamil Nadu’s role in #ISRO’s success. Applause to Thiru Somanath and his team for their stellar achievements!’
In a brief chat with reporters, Mr. Somanath expressed gratitude for CM Stalin’s support and presented the model of Chandrayaan 3. He also discussed the progress of Tamil Nadu in supporting industries related to space and defense sectors.
Regarding the construction of ISRO’s second spaceport at Kulasekarapattinam in Thoothukudi district, Mr. Somanath mentioned that the land acquisition process was almost completed. The second spaceport, dedicated to Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) missions by private players, is expected to be operational in about two years.
The SSLV launch vehicle, capable of launching approximately 500kg satellites in a 500-km planar orbit, is known for its low cost, low turnaround time, flexibility, launch-on-demand feasibility, and minimal infrastructure requirements. Mr. Somanath emphasized that the Kulasekarapattinam launch pad would be exclusively used by the private sector, facilitating launches without the need for rockets to turn southward over Sri Lanka.
The ISRO Chairman sought support from CM Stalin for various clearances, connectivity, and electricity to advance the Kulasekarapattinam project, emphasizing Tamil Nadu’s progress in supporting the space and defense industries.”
