ISRO all set to launch first ever 'Made-in-India' space shuttle on May 23

Image courtesy: ISRO (Image for representational purpose only)

New Delhi: For the very first time in its space history, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is all set to undertake the maiden launch of it's indigenous 'space shuttle' which is fully made-in-India effort.

According to a report in Times Of India, the Indian Space agency is going to launch its very first Reusable Satellite Launch Vehicle Technology Demonstrator (RLV-TD) on May 23, 2016.

RLV-TD is a step towards the historic launch of the advanced RLV by 2020.

RLV-TD was sent to National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) in Bengaluru for acoustics testing, after series of tests were conducted at the sub-system level such as actuator and flight control tests.

In March this year, the integration of the space shuttle parts with electronic tests was done.

As per reports, VSSC director K Sivan said that the space shuttle is now at Sriharikota spaceport and the final mission readiness tests are being conducted for its maiden launch, which is tentatively scheduled for May 23, 2016.

Current RLV-TD incurs a project cost of Rs 95 crore. The advanced RLV with ABPS uses atmospheric air as oxidizer for combustion, with vehicle fuel to propel the rocket, and it can bring down space travel cost by 110th and eventually by 1100th later.

(With Agency inputs)