Source: IE
Context: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has announced the development of its heaviest rocket ever — the Lunar Module Launch Vehicle (LMLV), expected to be ready by 2035.
About Lunar Module Launch Vehicle (LMLV)
What it is
- The LMLV is ISRO’s next-generation heavy-lift launch vehicle.
- It will be the most powerful rocket built by India, designed specifically for lunar and interplanetary missions.
Objective
- To enable crewed lunar missions by 2040.
- To carry larger payloads to the Moon and support deep space exploration.
- To enhance India’s self-reliance in human spaceflight technology.
Specifications
- Payload to Moon: ~27 tonnes.
- Payload to Low Earth Orbit (LEO): ~80 tonnes (200–2,000 km).
- Timeline: Planned readiness by 2035.
- Propulsion: Advanced cryogenic and semi-cryogenic engines expected.
Evolution of ISRO’s Launch Vehicles
- Sounding Rockets (1963)
- First Nike Apache sounding rocket launched from Thumba, Kerala.
- Used for atmospheric experiments, not capable of orbital flight.
- India’s first indigenous rocket.
- Led by A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, placed Rohini satellite in orbit.
- Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle (ASLV) – 1987-94
- Improved SLV with strap-on boosters.
- Limited success, carried payloads up to 150 kg.
- Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) – 1994 onwards
- India’s workhorse rocket, highly reliable.
- Payload: ~1,000–1,750 kg to LEO.
- Key missions: Chandrayaan-1 (2008), Mangalyaan (2013).
- Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV)
- Introduced cryogenic engines after US denied transfer in 1990s.
- Payload to GTO: ~2,000–2,500 kg.
- India’s heaviest operational rocket today.
- Payload: ~4,000 kg to GTO.
- Major missions: Chandrayaan-2 (2019), Chandrayaan-3 (2023).
- Lunar Module Launch Vehicle (LMLV) – 2035 (planned)
- Will surpass all previous rockets.
- Designed for human spaceflight to the Moon and beyond.
