Synopsis
Highlights of ISRO’s Activities in 2022-23
- 5 PSLV and 1 GSLV rocket launches conducted. Key missions include:
- Launch of Earth Observation Satellite – Oceansat-3 and INS-2B satellites
- Launch of communication satellites GSAT-24 and GSAT-29
- Progress made on human spaceflight program ‘Gaganyaan’:
- Unmanned missions planned in 2024 and 2025, manned mission in 2026-27
- Tests conducted of crew escape system and space suit
- Work on Chandrayaan-3 lunar mission underway, expected launch in 2024
- Budget of Rs 12,543 crore allocated to Department of Space in 2023-24, increased from Rs 10,530 crore in 2022-23
Key Organizations
- Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) – Lead agency responsible for R&D, operations, manufacturing. 2022-23 budget of Rs 5,862 crore.
- Antrix Corporation – Commercial arm of ISRO. Revenue of Rs 1,875 crore in 2022 from satellite launches, data sales.
- NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL) – Formed to enable private sector participation in space. Provided Rs 1 crore budget in 2022-23.
- Indian Institute of Space Science & Technology – Deemed university focused on education and research. 2022-23 budget of Rs 76 crore.
- National Remote Sensing Centre – Responsible for remote sensing satellite data acquisition and distribution.
Key Developments
- Progress on SSLV small satellite launch vehicle and RLV reusable launch vehicle technology demonstrators.
- Draft National Space Transportation Policy released in 2020 to encourage private sector participation.
- IN-SPACe regulatory body setup to promote private sector activities. 2022-23 budget of Rs 21 crore.
- India collaborating with France, Japan, Russia, US and ESA on joint missions and technology development.
Summary
India continues to make strides in its space program through the activities of ISRO and opening up of the sector. Key focus areas include the Gaganyaan human spaceflight program, new launch vehicles, and increased commercialization.
