PARLIAMENT QUESTION: INDIA’S SPACE LAUNCH PROGRAMME

Why in news

The article details the achievements of India's space launch programme over the last three years (July 2023 to June 2026), as presented in response to a Parliament Question.

Exam relevance

GS3 · Science & Technology · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. In the last 3 years (July 2023 to June 2026), India successfully launched 12 launch vehicle missions, 11 national satellites, and 9 satellites for international customers.
2. India became the first country to successfully carry out soft-landing near the south pole of the Moon through the Chandrayaan-3 Mission.
3. India launched its first solar observatory mission, Aditya-L1, on PSLV.
4. The milestone of 100 launches from India’s spaceport at Sriharikota was achieved.
5. India became the 4th country to demonstrate docking/undocking in space through the SPADEX mission.
6. The development of Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) was completed with its 3rd developmental flight, and a technology transfer agreement was signed with Indian industry.
7. The first joint NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) mission was successfully launched on India’s GSLV vehicle.
8. India launched the heaviest satellite to GTO from its soil through the CMS-03 mission using the LVM3 launch vehicle.
9. In a subsequent LVM3 launch, India launched the heaviest satellite ever from Indian soil for a US customer.
10. Department of Space has developed and operationalized four launch vehicles: PSLV, GSLV, GSLV MkIII, and SSLV.

Prelims pointers

• Chandrayaan-3: First country to achieve soft-landing near Moon's south pole.
• Aditya-L1: India's first solar observatory mission, launched on PSLV.
• SPADEX mission: Demonstrated docking/undocking in space, making India the 4th country.
• SSLV: Small Satellite Launch Vehicle, development completed, technology transfer to industry.
• NISAR mission: Joint NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar mission, launched on GSLV.
• Operational launch vehicles of India: PSLV, GSLV, GSLV MkIII, SSLV.
• LVM3: Used for launching heaviest satellites from Indian soil, including for international customers.

Mains practice question

Analyze the recent achievements of India's space launch program and discuss their implications for India's scientific, economic, and strategic interests. (150 words)

Static linkage

This news highlights the ongoing advancements and achievements of India's space program, spearheaded by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). It reflects India's growing capabilities in satellite launch, interplanetary missions, and commercial space services, aligning with the broader goals of self-reliance and global leadership in space technology.

Significance

The achievements underscore India's growing prowess in space technology, enhancing its strategic autonomy and global standing. Successful missions like Chandrayaan-3 and Aditya-L1 demonstrate advanced scientific and engineering capabilities. Commercial launches for international customers boost India's space economy and provide a competitive edge. The development of SSLV and technology transfer to industry promote private sector participation and foster a robust domestic space ecosystem. Collaborative missions like NISAR strengthen international partnerships and facilitate knowledge exchange, contributing to global scientific endeavors.