The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the development of the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV). This significant step aligns with the government’s vision of establishing and operating the Bharatiya Antariksh Station and developing capabilities for an Indian crewed landing on the Moon by 2040.
Key Features of NGLV
- Payload Capability: NGLV will possess 3 times the payload capability of the current launch vehicle, LVM3, while operating at 1.5 times the cost.
- Reusability: The vehicle will feature reusable stages, reducing the cost of space access and enabling low-cost space missions.
- Green Propulsion Systems: NGLV will incorporate modular green propulsion systems, enhancing its environmental sustainability.
Goals of the Indian Space Programme During Amrit Kaal
The Indian space programme envisions launching human-rated missions with high payload capabilities and reusability. NGLV is a cornerstone in this vision, with the following objectives:
- Maximum Payload: Designed to carry up to 30 tonnes to Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
- Reusable First Stage: The NGLV will feature a reusable first stage to make missions more efficient and cost-effective.
Currently, India’s space transportation systems can launch:
- Up to 10 tonnes to LEO.
- Up to 4 tonnes to Geo-Synchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). This is accomplished through operational launch vehicles like PSLV, GSLV, LVM3, and SSLV.
Industry Participation and Development Timeline
The NGLV project will heavily involve the Indian industry, which will be expected to invest in manufacturing capacities from the outset. This approach ensures a smooth transition from the development phase to operational launches.
- Development Flights: The project will include three development flights (D1, D2, and D3).
- Timeline: The development phase will be completed in 96 months (8 years).
- Approved Budget: The total budget approved for the project is Rs. 8240 Crore, covering development costs, facility establishment, and programme management.
Applications and Impact
NGLV will support both national and commercial missions, including:
- Human Spaceflight Missions to the Bharatiya Antariksh Station.
- Lunar and Inter-Planetary Exploration Missions.
- Launch of communication and earth observation satellite constellations to Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
This project will significantly boost India’s space ecosystem, enhancing the nation’s capability and capacity in space technology and exploration.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the payload capacity of the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) to Low Earth Orbit (LEO)?
a) 10 tonnes
b) 4 tonnes
c) 30 tonnes
d) 20 tonnes
Answer: c) 30 tonnes - How many development flights are planned for NGLV?
a) 1
b) 2
c) 3
d) 4
Answer: c) 3 - What is the total budget approved by the Union Cabinet for the NGLV development project?
a) Rs. 5000 Crore
b) Rs. 8240 Crore
c) Rs. 7500 Crore
d) Rs. 6000 Crore
Answer: b) Rs. 8240 Crore - What is one of the major missions planned to be supported by the NGLV?
a) Mars landing by 2030
b) Launch of Bharatiya Antariksh Station
c) Construction of Indian spaceports
d) Unmanned flights to Neptune
Answer: b) Launch of Bharatiya Antariksh Station - What is the key advantage of NGLV over current launch vehicles like LVM3?
a) It is cheaper to operate
b) It has green propulsion systems and reusability
c) It is designed for short-range flights
d) It requires no industry participation
Answer: b) It has green propulsion systems and reusability