Question : LOW COST ACCESS TO SPACE

(a) whether the ISRO is exploring methods of gaining low cost access to space for improving competitiveness in the area; and

(b) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE PRIME MINISTER`S OFFICE (SHRI PRITHVIRAJ CHAVAN):

(a) Yes, Sir.

(b) ISRO has two operational launches viz., the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, PSLV for launching remote sensing satellites into Polar orbit and Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle, GSLV for launching communication satellites into Geosynchronous transfer orbit, which are cost competitive. Further, development of GSLV-MK III has been taken up targeting substantial reduction in cost of access to space.