ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan meets Tamil Nadu CM Vijay, discusses Kulasekarapattinam spaceport

The meeting comes as preparations are progressing for the first rocket launch from the upcoming spaceport, which is targeted for March–April 2027. Narayanan reportedly briefed the Chief Minister on the construction progress and the infrastructure being developed at the facility.

The ISRO Chairman indicated that construction work was progressing and that the spaceport would play an important role in India's growing small-satellite launch programme.

The Kulasekarapattinam facility is being developed primarily to support launches of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), which is designed to place small satellites into orbit. Its coastal location is expected to provide operational advantages for dedicated small-satellite missions.

The project is significant for Tamil Nadu as it is expected to strengthen the state's presence in India's space and aerospace ecosystem, while creating opportunities for ancillary industries, technology development and employment in the region.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of coordination between the state government and ISRO in facilitating the development of the spaceport and supporting the infrastructure required for its operations.