Bharatiya Space Station / Bharatiya Antariksha Station

India aims to establish its own permanent space station called ‘Bharatiya Space Station’ over the next 25 years. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has set a target to launch the first module of this station by 2028.

This forms part of India’s ambitious future space plans, which also include crewed missions, deeper space exploration and more advanced launch capabilities.

First Module Launch by 2028

According to recent statements by ISRO Chairman Dr. S. Somanath, the organization plans to launch the first module of Bharatiya Space Station by 2028. This is likely to be an 8-ton module launched using India’s LVM3 rocket. This will be followed by launching additional modules over the next 7 years.

By 2035, ISRO aims to have a fully operational space station with greater launch capacity, facilities for docking crew and cargo transporters, zero gravity research labs and more.

Developing Heavy Lift Launchers

To support the space station, ISRO is developing more powerful rockets capable of lifting 20–25-ton payloads to Low Earth orbit.

These heavy lift vehicles will allow assembling a modular station by launching segments separately and joining them in space. They can also support possible future interplanetary missions.

Crewed Missions to Follow

While the first module will be robotic, Dr. Somanath indicates plans for crewed missions after 2035 once the Bharatiya station gains full functionality. This will cap India’s 3-stage strategy spanning robotic spacecraft, human spaceflight programs and finally a permanent national space station.

Global Space Station Landscape

India’s ambition comes as the International Space Station (ISS) may conclude operations by 2030, offering opportunities for new national or regional stations.

China already has a permanent station called Tiangong while Russia plans its own ROS station to replace lost access to ISS. Against this backdrop, Bharatiya station establishes India as a major space-faring nation.

Wider Space Plans

Alongside the space station, ISRO is accelerating other projects like the Gaganyaan crewed spacecraft, the Aditya solar observatory, extraterrestrial rovers and exploring nuclear propulsion.

ISRO has also opened up the space sector to private players to spur research and innovation. Their participation can enhance launch services, satellite manufacturing and applications benefiting the public.

Implications of Bharatiya Space Station

Once successful, India’s own space station would be a massive technological leap enabling advanced exploration and cementing strategic interests. If executed per plans, it will be the hallmark of a self-reliant space industry guided by national priorities. Undoubtedly, Bharatiya Space Station will be an unprecedented achievement writing India into the record books of space development.

Month: Current Affairs - December, 2023

Category: Science & Technology Current Affairs