ISRO to Transfer Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) to Private Sector, Boosting India’s Commercial Space Industry

The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has announced its decision to completely transfer the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) to the private sector, encompassing both manufacturing and operational aspects. The SSLV, a three-stage launch vehicle equipped with solid and liquid propulsion stages, is designed to deliver on-demand satellite launch services for payloads weighing up to 500kg in a low-earth orbit. This strategic move is set to accelerate the growth of India’s commercial satellite launch services sector, which is projected to contribute a substantial $13 billion to the country’s economy by 2025. The SSLV’s key advantages, including its cost-effectiveness, short turnaround time, flexibility in accommodating multiple satellites, and minimal launch infrastructure requirements, have made it increasingly appealing to various sectors such as businesses, government agencies, universities, and research laboratories. With the successful launch of the SSLV in February, which deployed multiple satellites into a 450 km circular orbit, the complete transfer to the private sector is expected to create promising business opportunities for space agencies, catering to the rising demand for space-based data, communication, surveillance, and commerce.