Next Generation Launch Vehicle

[9][10][11] This family of three launchers was previously being designed for replacing the different core propulsion modules of PSLV, GSLV, and LVM3 respectively with a common semi-cryogenic engine and hence it was named as Unified Launch Vehicle (ULV).

But the new proposals under the name of Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) suggests launchers having partial reusability.

As ISRO's launch vehicles were ageing, the need for a new generation of launchers with interchangeable modular parts was realised.

[20][21] The four booster options were: A potential heavy-lift variant (HLV) of the ULV, in theory was capable of placing up to 10 ton class of spacecraft into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit.

[23] Under the direction of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Union Cabinet approved the development of the Next-Generation Launch Vehicle on September 18, 2024.

This move bolsters India's ambition to establish and run the Bharatiya Antariksh Station and accomplish a crewed lunar landing by 2040.

It will be implemented over 96 months (8 years) and comprises financing for program administration, facility establishment, and three developmental flights (D1, D2 & D3).

[16] NGLV will have a simple, robust architecture that enables bulk production and modularity in stages, subsystems, and systems for quick turnaround times.

[36] In June 2023, ISRO revealed that the team working on the NGLV programme had already submitted a preliminary report on the rocket's details, manufacturing process, and approach toward development.

[37] Following several months of preliminary planning and design and architectural refinement, ISRO has established a project team to begin construction of the NGLV.

The third launch pad at Sriharikota will be required because the NGLV project, internally named "SOORYA," will differ from the current class of rockets in configuration.

[38] With the aim of sending humans to the moon by 2040, ISRO has begun working on future technology development initiatives.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on September 4, 2024, by the Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology (RRCAT) and the Liquid Propulsion System Centre (LPSC) to jointly develop propulsion technology capable of lifting up to 30 tonnes and conveniently transporting bigger payloads to space and the moon.