Why the ISRO Chose Sriharikota for Its Launch Site

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) selected Sriharikota as its primary launch site due to several strategic and practical considerations. This choice encapsulates a range of geographical, infrastructural, and operational benefits that have made Sriharikota an ideal location for the organization's launch operations.

Geographical Location

Sriharikota is strategically situated on the eastern coast of India, approximately 80 kilometers from Chennai. This location offers numerous advantages for ISRO's launch operations. Firstly, the site allows rockets to launch over the Bay of Bengal. This is a critical factor for safety as it minimizes the risk to populated areas if a launch were to fail. By launching over the ocean, any failed components would fall harmlessly into the sea, significantly reducing the risk of property damage and casualties.

Proximity to the Equator

Being closer to the equator provides a significant performance boost to launch vehicles. As the Earth rotates from west to east, rockets launched from near the equator can take advantage of this natural rotational velocity, known as the equatorial launch advantage. This allows them to carry heavier payloads into orbit with less fuel, significantly improving the payload capacity of the rockets.

Accessibility and Infrastructure

The accessibility of Sriharikota is another crucial factor. The site's proximity to major cities like Chennai facilitates the transportation of equipment and personnel, ensuring that launch operations can proceed efficiently. The development of necessary infrastructure, including launch pads, control centers, and testing facilities, has further enhanced the site's capacity to support various types of missions. This comprehensive infrastructure ensures that all aspects of a launch can be managed smoothly, from pre-launch preparations to post-launch activities.

Security and Isolation

The isolated and secure nature of Sriharikota also plays a vital role in the site's suitability as a launch site. The location's relative isolation provides a secure environment for sensitive operations, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access or interference. Additionally, the lack of dense population in the vicinity ensures that any potential hazards are contained within a small area, further enhancing safety.

Additional Considerations

Other factors that influenced the selection of Sriharikota include its high altitude, which further enhances the performance of rockets, and its convenient distance from populous areas. The site's elevation above sea level, combined with its distance from major urban centers, ensures that the launch activities are conducted in an optimal environment. Furthermore, the site's proximity to the equator and its natural sea coast make it an ideal location for launches, as rockets can use the Earth's rotational velocity to increase their payload capacity.

Historical Context

The choice of Sriharikota was not arbitrary but was part of a strategic decision-making process. The site was selected by Dr. Vikram Sarabhai himself, who envisioned a robust space program and recognized the importance of having a reliable launch facility. Sriharikota is also the second space center in India, following the establishment of Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

Conclusion

The combination of geographical, infrastructural, and operational advantages makes Sriharikota an ideal choice for ISRO's launch operations. The site not only meets but exceeds the requirements for a successful launch, ensuring that India's space program can continue to make significant advancements in space exploration and technology.