The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for one of its busiest periods yet. Chairman V Narayanan revealed that ISRO has mapped out an ambitious plan that includes seven rocket launches by March 2026. This includes various missions, such as a commercial satellite for communication and several others using the PSLV and GSLV rockets.
A significant highlight is the launch of the first PSLV rocket entirely produced by Indian companies, showcasing a boost to local industries and skill development in science and technology. To keep up with increasing mission demands, ISRO aims to triple its spacecraft production over the next three years.
India’s first human spaceflight mission, called Gaganyaan, is still set for 2027. Narayanan affirmed that while the schedule for test flights with no crew has shifted, the manned mission will remain on track.
Additionally, the government has approved Chandrayaan-4, a complex mission to bring back lunar samples, expected to launch in 2028. This mission aims to achieve what only a few countries have done before.
India is also partnering with Japan on the LUPEX mission, focusing on exploring water ice at the lunar South Pole. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has instructed ISRO to prepare for sending Indian astronauts to the Moon by 2040, part of a larger goal to establish India as a major player in space exploration.
Moreover, ISRO is working on an Indian Space Station, aiming for completion by 2035. The first of its five modules is scheduled to launch by 2028, positioning India as the third nation to operate a space station.
Reforms in the space sector have allowed private companies to participate more actively, with over 450 industries and 330 startups now part of India’s space ecosystem, a significant increase from just a few years ago. This transformation follows regulatory changes made in 2020, enabling private involvement in rocket development, satellite production, and commercial launch services.
Overall, ISRO’s roadmap reflects India’s ambitions in the space sector, aiming to achieve significant milestones in the coming years.
-Rashmi Kumari
