Image Source: Udayavani
Key Highlights
India is set to achieve a record stride in space research, with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) signing off on a vision to have its own space station by 2035, and plans to build a lunar space station exclusively for Moon missions by 2040. ISRO chief S. Somanath and central government officials have emphasized these goals as part of India's ongoing space adventure.
Bharatiya Antariksha Station: Establishing the Foundation (2035)
The Bharatiya Antariksha Station will be India's first native space station, which will be functional by 2035. The low Earth orbit (LEO) laboratory will be a platform for long-term astronaut missions, testing of technology, and international cooperation, acting as a stepping stone for further ambitious deep space objectives.
Cabinet approval has been obtained for the launch of the first space station module (BAS-1) by December 2028. This is part of the augmented Gaganyaan human spaceflight program—which now encompasses more unmanned demo missions and substantial funding injections.
The development pipeline for the station includes extensive technology demonstrations, human-rated launch vehicles, and a sequence of precursor missions to achieve readiness for long-duration human habitation in orbit.
Lunar Space Station: Chandrayaan Legacy to Permanent Outpost (2040)
Following the success of Chandrayaan missions, ISRO has revealed a three-stage roadmap leading to a lunar space station by 2040. The plan:
Phase 1: Robotic missions and core technology, such as Chandrayaan-4 (Moon sample return).
Phase 2: Crewed lunar landing, targeted for around 2040.
Phase 3: Development of a lunar orbiting station for supporting science and as a stepping stone for further space. The lunar outpost is expected to play a critical role in Moon geology research, technology validation, and resource utilization, positioning India as a permanent player in lunar and interplanetary exploration.
Strategic Context and Global Impact
These announcements position India in the exclusive club of countries seeking independent, long-term human presence beyond Earth—a step in line with new space race dynamics internationally.
ISRO's roadmap echoes India's larger aspirations: an Indian astronaut on the Moon by 2040, complex interplanetary missions, and leadership in Earth-orbit and lunar studies.
ISRO's ambitious objectives reflect the country's increasing capability, political determination, and public interest in space. Through sequenced milestones and widening collaborations, India's concepts for a space station and lunar base signal the beginning of a new phase in its scientific as well as geopolitical rise.
Sources: India Today, Space.com, DD News
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