India Sets Bold Space Ambitions: Astronauts to Walk on Moon by 2040

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reaffirmed India’s commitment to space exploration, announcing that Indian astronauts will set foot on the Moon by 2040. Speaking at the Global Conference on Space Exploration 2025, Modi outlined India’s long-term vision for space missions, including plans to establish the Bharatiya Antariksha Station by 2035.

 

The announcement comes as India continues to expand its presence in space technology, following the success of missions such as Chandrayaan-3 and the Mars Orbiter Mission. Modi emphasized that India’s space journey is not about competing with other nations but about pushing boundaries for the collective good of humanity.

 

India’s space roadmap includes ambitious projects beyond lunar exploration. The country is also eyeing missions to Mars and Venus, reinforcing its position as a key player in global space research. Modi highlighted the upcoming Gaganyaan mission, India’s first human spaceflight, scheduled for launch in early 2027.

 

In addition to deep-space exploration, India is strengthening its satellite capabilities. Modi announced that an Indian astronaut will soon travel to the International Space Station as part of a joint ISRO-NASA mission. The Axiom-4 mission, set for launch on May 29, will see Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla join a 14-day expedition to the orbital laboratory.

 

India’s space sector has witnessed rapid growth, with over 250 startups contributing to advancements in satellite technology, propulsion systems, and imaging. Modi emphasized that space is not just about exploration but also empowerment, citing the role of satellites in improving governance, railway safety, and weather forecasting.

 

Space Exploration Highlights:

Sources: The Hindu, Business Standard, Economic Times, Moneycontrol, CNBC-TV18.