VSSC at Thiruvananthapuram

VSSC at Thiruvananthapuram is the major center of ISRO, where the design and development activities of satellite launch vehicles and sounding rockets are carried out and made ready for launch operations. The centre pursues research and development activities for associated technologies such as launch vehicle design, propellants, solid propulsion technology, aerodynamics, aero structural and aero thermal aspects, avionics, polymers and composites, guidance, control, and simulation, computer and information, mechanical engineering, aerospace mechanisms, vehicle integration and testing, space ordnance, chemicals and materials. Systems reliability and quality assurance of all aspects of engineering and operations are studied and evaluated to the levels of perfection required in each field. Programme planning and evaluation, technology transfer and industrial coordination, indigenization, human resources development, safety and personnel and general administration groups support the centre for all its activities.

The Space Physics Laboratory at VSSC carries out research and studies in atmospheric science and other related space science activities. Ammonium Perchlorate Experimental Plant (APEP) at Aluva in Kerala is a part of VSSC. The major programmes at VSSC include launch vehicle projects of Polar Satellite Launch Vehicles (PSLV), Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicles (GSLV Mark II and Mark III), Rohini Sounding Rockets, Space-capsule Recovery Experiments, Reusable Launch Vehicles and Air Breathing Propulsion for Advanced Reusable Launch Vehicles.