Space Infrastructure projects

Space Infrastructure projects

News: Recently, PM Modi inaugurated three new facilities to boost the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) launch capabilities during a visit to the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC).

Background:
• The projects have been developed at a cumulative cost of about ₹1,800 crore.
• The projects include PSLV Integration Facility (PIF), Semi-cryogenics Integrated Engine and Stage Test facility and ‘Trisonic Wind Tunnel’.

PSLV Integration Facility (PIF)
• The PSLV Integration Facility at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, is designed to enhance the frequency of PSLV launches from 6 to 15 per year. This state-of-the-art facility can also cater to the launches of SSLV and other small launch vehicles developed by private space enterprises.

Semi-cryogenics Integrated Engine and Stage Test facility
•  The Semi-cryogenic Integrated Engine and Stage Test Facility (SIET) at the ISRO Propulsion Complex(IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, is a major boost to ISRO’s plans for a reliable, home-grown semicryogenic engine for its launch vehicles.
• The facility is equipped with liquid Oxygen and kerosene supply systems to test engines up to 200 tons of thrust.

Trisonic wind tunnel
• A Trisonic Wind Tunnel is capable of testing in three speed regimes – subsonic, transonic, and supersonic. The new trisonic wind tunnel at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) equips ISRO with a robust inhouse support system for space missions. The tunnel has an overall length of about 160m and has a maximum cross section of 5.4m.