The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has finally opened its doors for people to watch the magnificent launches of its multi-storeyed rockets from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
The rocket launch PSLV-C45 carrying DRDO payload Emisat and 28 foreign satellite will be the first launch to be viewed by spectators at the space centre, which is approximately 100 Kms from Chennai. The move to throw open the high-security centre come in line with NASA, which too allows viewing its space activities to the public.
A sprawling viewing gallery which has been built like a stadium can accommodate about 5000 people at a time. The gallery has a direct view of the two launch pads. Though the gallery can house 5000 people as a precautionary measure only 1000 people are allowed to view the launch on Monday. The gallery is situated at a distance of about 2-3 Kms away from the launch pads.
?? #ISROMissions ??
Phase-1 of visitors’ gallery, with 5000 capacity, will go live at SDSC in Sriharikota on March 31. It has a clear line of sight to 2 launch pads. Large screens placed to explain launcher\satellite features.
Our #PSLVC45 April 1 launch updates to continue. pic.twitter.com/bHVFuOdTYC
— ISRO (@isro) March 30, 2019
ISRO chief will be inaugurating the gallery on Sunday. According to him, the opening of ISRO will take it to the people and create awareness among the people about Space activities undertaken by ISRO.
The stadium is a part of the theme park, which will also have a museum and life-size rocket models to help visitors get a better understanding and feel of rockets. ISRO chief believes such activities by ISRO will spark interest among youngsters towards India’s space sector and make them aware of ISRO’s advancements and accomplishments.
