In fact, the satellite industry itself started on small launch vehicles. That was the time when large capacity launch vehicles were yet to be developed. However, as miniaturisation -especially electronics and related control systems- was not advanced, there was a limitation on size reduction that could be achieved in satellite design. This, combined with the race to put man in space gave impetus to development of powerful large payload carrying rockets. Now that miniaturization has matured considerably and entered the realm of nano-technology, miniaturization of satellites is very much possible. However, putting such nano-tech based satellites and conducting research and experiments in space are still expensive as the unit cost -i.e, Rupees per kg- of putting a satellite in even near-earth orbit has not come down at all despite great strides in launch vehicle development. It is an opportune time now to develop small, efficient and low cost launch vehicles in a fairly wide range. For instance, there is no point in offering only a 200 kg or a 500 kgs payload launch vehicle. Then a research lab wanting to launch a 40 kg or a 80 kg or even a 300 kg satellite will have to wait till sufficient cargo accumulates for a viable commercial launch. Instead, ISRO could develop a series of launch vehicles with payload capacities of 50, 80, 100, 150, 200 and 300 kg capacities. These could be offered as exclusive launches for individual customers. This way ISRO can promote its services worl
