Why in the News?

In its first launch of 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation achieved the milestone of 100 launches.

What does the 100th launch signify for India’s space capabilities?

The 100th launch underscores ISRO’s growth since its establishment in 1969, showcasing its evolution into a reliable launch partner for both domestic and international satellites. 

• Technological Advancement: This launch utilized an indigenous cryogenic engine, highlighting India’s advancements in rocket technology. The GSLV series has been instrumental in increasing payload capacity and efficiency during satellite launches, contributing to ISRO’s reputation as a formidable player in the global space arena.
• Contribution to Navigation Systems: The NVS-02 satellite is part of India’s Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) system, which enhances India’s capabilities in terrestrial, aerial, and maritime navigation.
  • This satellite will replace the IRNSS-1E satellite and improve the accuracy and reliability of navigation services across India and surrounding regions.

What are the future plans for ISRO following this milestone?

• Ambitious Missions: Following this milestone, ISRO aims to undertake several high-profile missions, including a sample return mission from the Moon, a mission to Venus, and the establishment of an Indian space station. These initiatives are part of ISRO’s broader goal to expand its capabilities and presence in space exploration.
• Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV): ISRO is developing a heavier rocket called the NGLV, which will be capable of carrying up to 30,000 kg to low Earth orbit. This vehicle will feature a reusable first stage to enhance cost-effectiveness in launches.
• Expansion of Infrastructure: Plans are underway to build a third launch pad at Sriharikota to accommodate increased launch frequency and support human spaceflight missions alongside commercial launches.

How will private sector involvement shape ISRO’s future missions?

• Collaboration and Innovation: The PSLV-C60 mission exemplified successful collaboration between ISRO and private startups, allowing non-government entities to deploy payloads for in-orbit experiments.
  • This initiative fosters innovation by enabling startups to test their technologies using ISRO’s infrastructure, thereby reducing costs and encouraging diverse contributions to India’s space capabilities.
• Transitioning Operational Responsibilities: ISRO aims to transfer more operational tasks to private companies, allowing them to manage activities traditionally handled by the agency.
  • This shift is intended to increase efficiency and scalability within the space sector, empowering private entities to take on significant roles in satellite launches and other space activities, thus expanding India’s overall capabilities.
• Commercialization of Space Activities: The government has focused on increasing India’s share of the global space economy from 2% to 10% over the next decade through public-private partnerships.

Way forward: 

• Strengthening Public-Private Synergy: ISRO should continue fostering collaboration with private players by expanding access to launch infrastructure, streamlining regulatory frameworks, and incentivizing innovation through initiatives like IN-SPACe and NSIL.
• Focus on Heavy-Lift and Reusability: Prioritizing the development of the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) with reusable technology will enhance cost-effectiveness, positioning India as a competitive player in the global commercial space sector.

Mains PYQ:

Q India has achieved remarkable successes in unmanned space missions including the Chandrayaan and Mars Orbiter Mission, but has not ventured into manned space mission. What are the main obstacles to launching a manned space mission, both in terms of technology and logistics? Examine critically. (UPSC IAS/2017)

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