However, the launch corridor is inefficient for smaller rockets carrying payloads to a polar orbit (circling the Earth above the poles), since the island nation of Sri Lanka is directly to the South of Sriharikota.

[26][27] On 28 February 2024, the foundation stone was laid for the construction of the new facility, with an area of 2,233 acres in the Padukkapathu, Pallakurichi, and Mathavankurichi villages in the Kulasekarapattinam and Sathankulam taluks of the Tuticorin district.

The state government of Tamil Nadu completed the land acquisition for project which will be built at an estimated cost of Rs 950 crore and aiming for readiness by 2026.

VSSC provided the rocket and the meteorological payload, while SDSC installed launch facilities including radars, launchers, and electronic systems.

[33] This spaceport will provide launchpads and support facilities for ISRO missions carrying payloads into polar orbits.