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Subject: Space ProgramsXIND

  • Gaganyaan: ISRO Successfully Tests Key Crew Module Systems

    Why in News?

    The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully conducted three major qualification tests of the Gaganyaan Crew Module to enhance astronaut safety during re-entry and recovery.

    Key Highlights

    • Crew Module Uprighting System (CMUS): Uses a stored cold gas inflation system to automatically restore the crew module to an upright position after sea splashdown, ensuring crew safety.
    • Crew Module Umbilical System (CSU-2): Successfully tested the separation of the Crew Module Umbilical-2 (CSU-2), which connects the Crew Module (CM) and Service Module (SM).
      • Enables clean separation before atmospheric re-entry while maintaining structural integrity.
    • Apex Cover Separation Test: Validated the structural integrity during separation of the apex cover, which protects the parachute system.
      • The cover separates before parachute deployment to ensure safe deceleration and landing.
      • Note: Parachute systems are deployed to slow descents through the atmosphere or space.

    About Gaganyaan Mission

    • India’s first indigenous human spaceflight mission.
    • Implemented by: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
    • Objective: Demonstrate India’s capability to send three astronauts to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) (about 400 km) for up to 3 days and safely return them to Earth.

    Significance

    • Strengthens astronaut safety during splashdown and re-entry.
    • Validates critical crew escape and recovery systems.
    • Advances India’s human spaceflight capability and future space exploration.

    [2025] Consider the following space missions:
    I. Axiom-4
    II. SpaDeX
    III. Gaganyaan
    How many of the space missions given above encourage and support microgravity research?

    [A] Only one

    [B] Only two

    [C] All the three

    [D] None

  • Mission Drishti Loses Communication After Solar Storm

    Why in News?

    Mission Drishti, developed by Bengaluru based GalaxEye, lost communication after a geomagnetic solar storm affected the satellite during the Launch and Early Orbit Phase (LEOP).

    Key Highlights

    • Launched on 3 May 2026 aboard SpaceX Falcon 9 from Vandenberg, California.
    • World’s first OptoSAR satellite, combining optical imaging and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR).
    • India’s largest privately developed Earth observation satellite.
    • Radiation from the solar storm likely affected a critical onboard system, causing communication loss.
    • Recovery efforts are ongoing, but chances of recovery are currently low.

    What is OptoSAR?

    • Integrates optical cameras with Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR).
    • Provides high-resolution imaging in all weather conditions, including through clouds and at night.
    • Useful for disaster management, agriculture, defence, mapping, and environmental monitoring.

    Significance

    • Validated several indigenous satellite technologies and mission operations.
    • Strengthens India’s private space ecosystem.
    • Lessons from the mission will improve future spacecraft reliability.
    • GalaxEye plans to launch two next-generation OptoSAR satellites within the next 24 months.

    [2022] If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth?:
    1. GPS and navigation systems could fail.
    2. Tsunamis could occur at equatorial regions.
    3. Power grids could be damaged.
    4. Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth.
    5. Forest fires could take place over much of the planet.
    6. Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed
    7. Shortwave radio communication of the aircraft flying over polar regions could be interrupted.
    Select the correct answer using the code given below;

    [A] 1, 2, 4 and 5 only

    [B] 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 only

    [C] 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only

    [D] 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and

  • Vikram-1 to Carry Six Payloads in Maiden Orbital Mission

    Why in News?

    Skyroot Aerospace announced that its Vikram-1, India’s first privately developed orbital-class launch vehicle, will carry six payloads during its maiden mission, Mission Aagaman, expected between July 12 and August 4, 2026.

    Key Highlights

    • Vikram-1 is India’s first privately built orbital-class rocket.
    • It will carry six payloads, including technology demonstrations and cultural artefacts.
    • Technology payloads include:
      • SOLARAS nano-satellite (Grahaa Space)
      • SCOPE (Skyroot Aerospace)
      • Embrace robotic arm (Cosmoserve Space) for space debris capture technology
      • One international payload from Dcubed GmbH (Germany).
    • Cultural payloads:
      • Cosmic Bloom: Diamond jewellery mounted on an aluminium plate.
      • Microart: An 18K gold rocket featuring micro-sculptures of Sir C.V. Raman, Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, and Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.

    Significance

    • Marks a major milestone for India’s private space sector.
    • Demonstrates indigenous launch capability for commercial and technology missions.
    • Supports innovation in satellite technologies and space debris removal.

    Orbital-class Launch Vehicle

    • A rocket capable of placing satellites into Earth’s orbit, unlike sub-orbital rockets that follow a ballistic trajectory without completing an orbit.

    [2026] Consider the following statements with regard to involvement of private entities in India’s space programme :
    1. The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) is an autonomous agency formed to facilitate participation of private entities.
    2. Agnikul Cosmos launched the world’s first flight using 3D-printed rocket engine.
    3. Skyroot Aerospace has developed liquid fuel for GSLV.
    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    [A] 1 only

    [B] 2 and 3 only

    [C] 1 and 2 only

    [D] 1, 2 and 3

  • What do you understand by ‘Standard Positioning Systems’ and ‘Protection Positioning Systems’ in the GPS era? Discuss the advantages India perceives from its ambitious IRNSS programme employing just seven satellites.

  • Discuss India’s achievements in the field of Space Science and Technology. How the application of this technology has helped India in its socio-economic development?

  • India has achieved remarkable successes in unmanned space missions including the Chandrayaan and Mars Orbitter Mission, but has not ventured into manned space mission, both in terms of technology and logistics? Explain critically.

  • What is India’s plan to have its own space station and how will it benefit our space programme?

    A space station is a habitable, long-term orbital laboratory for scientific research. India’s plan to build the Bharatiya Antariksha Station (BAS) represents a pivotal shift from short-duration missions to a sustained human presence in space.

    India’s Plan for Bharatiya Antariksha Station (BAS)

    The BAS is envisioned as a modular space station positioned in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at an altitude of approximately 400-450 km.

    Modular Architecture: The station will consist of five modules launched in phases. The station’s total weight is estimated at 52 tonnes upon completion.

    Timeline:

    2028: Target for the launch of the first module, BAS-01 (Base Module).

    2028-2035: Sequential launch and docking of the remaining four modules.

    2035: Targeted year for the station to become fully operational.

    Technical Specifications: It is designed to accommodate a nominal crew of 3 to 4 astronauts for durations of 3 to 6 months, with a maximum capacity of 6 during crew handovers.

    The plan involves mastering Rendezvous and Docking (SpaDeX), advanced Environmental Control and Life Support Systems (ECLSS), and robotic arm operations.

    Benefits to India’s Space Programme

    Scientific

    Microgravity Research Platform: It provides a permanent laboratory for long-term experiments in biotechnology, materials science, and pharmaceuticals that cannot be replicated on Earth.

    Advanced Life Support Systems (ECLSS): Mastering the recycling of air and water is essential for sustaining life; BAS serves as the ultimate testbed for these “closed-loop” technologies.

    Technological

    Rendezvous and Docking Maturity: Successful operation requires perfecting the SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) technology, a critical skill for any future lunar or interplanetary assembly.

    Gateway to the Moon (2040): The station acts as a training ground for the Bharatiya Antariksha Yatri, preparing them for the planned 2040 Lunar Landing.

    In-Orbit Refueling and Servicing: BAS will pioneer technologies to refuel satellites in orbit, potentially extending the life of multi-billion dollar assets and reducing space debris.

    International

    Strategic Autonomy: Having an independent station ensures India is not dependent on foreign platforms for sensitive research or strategic orbital maneuvers.

    Geopolitical Leadership: It cements India’s role as a leader in the Global South, offering a potential platform for collaborative missions with nations lacking independent space access.

    Economic

    8. Income for ISRO by leasing out experiments, taking astronauts of other countries.

    9. Boosting space industry in India.

    10. Promotion of space tourism in India.

    The Bharatiya Antariksha Station is the cornerstone of India’s “Space Vision 2047.”

  • What is the main task of India’s third moon mission which could not be achieved in its earlier mission? List the countries that have achieved this task. Introduce the subsystems in the spacecraft launched and explain the role of the Virtual Launch Control Centre at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre which contributed to the successful launch from Srihari Kota.

    Chandrayaan-3 mission successfully landed near the lunar South Pole in August 2023. India not only redeemed the partial failure of its predecessor but also became the first nation to reach the Moon’s most scientifically coveted region.

    Main Task of Chandrayaan-3

    To demonstrate Safe and Soft Landing on the Lunar Surface. Chandrayaan-2 experienced a setback with the lander’s failure to achieve a soft landing.

    To demonstrate Rover roving on the moon and

    To conduct in-situ scientific experiments.

    Countries that have achieved moon mission

    The Soviet Union (USSR)

    The United States of America (USA)

    The People’s Republic of China

    The Republic of India

    Japan (Achieved post-Chandrayaan-3 in early 2024 via its SLIM mission)

    Subsystems of the Spacecraft

    Propulsion Module (PM): Carries the Lander Module from launch vehicle injection until it reaches the final 100 km circular polar lunar orbit, where separation occurs.

    Lander Module (LM): To demonstrate soft-landing capabilities at a specific lunar site and deploy the Rover.

    Scientific Payloads:

    ChaSTE: Measures thermal conductivity and surface temperature.

    ILSA: Monitors seismic activity around the landing site.

    RAMBHA Uses Langmuir Probe (LP) to measure near-surface plasma density and temporal variations.

    Laser Retroreflector Array: A passive instrument used for lunar laser ranging studies.

    Rover: Mobility across the lunar surface to conduct chemical analysis of the soil and rocks.

    Scientific Payloads:

    APXS (Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer): Derives the elemental composition of the lunar surface.

    LIBS (Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscope): Identifies the chemical elements present in the vicinity of the landing site.

    Role of the ‘Virtual Launch Control Centre’ (VLCC)

    Remote System Checkouts: Allowed ISRO scientists to perform comprehensive remote testing of the LVM3-M4 rocket from Thiruvananthapuram.

    Parallel Monitoring: It acted as a digital twin to the Main Control Centre (MCC) at Sriharikota, providing an additional layer of real-time telemetry analysis and redundancy.

    Decentralized Coordination: Strategic hub that allows experts to monitor the health of the launch vehicle without overcrowding the primary launch site.

    By rectifying previous design limitations, India’s third lunar mission successfully completed its complex soft-landing task, solidifying ISRO’s status in elite global space exploration.


    Nano-technology, Bio-technology and other

  • India’s Space Odyssey: Prelims Quick Revision

    Why in News?

    The Government highlighted India’s achievements under Space Vision 2047, focusing on self-reliance, commercialization, and human spaceflight.

    Major Missions

    • Chandrayaan-3 (2023): First soft landing near Moon’s south pole; confirmed sulphur.
    • Chandrayaan-4 (2027): Lunar sample return mission.
    • LUPEX (2027-28): ISRO-JAXA mission to explore lunar polar ice.
    • Mangalyaan: First country to reach Mars on maiden attempt.
    • Aditya-L1: India’s first solar observatory at Sun-Earth L1.
    • Venus Orbiter Mission: Planned for 2028.
    • Gaganyaan: India’s first human spaceflight programme.
    • Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS): First module by 2028.

    Space Technology

    • SpaDeX (2025): India became 4th nation to achieve autonomous space docking.
    • NavIC: Indigenous navigation system covering India and 1,500 km beyond.
    • VIKRAM3201: First indigenous 32-bit space microprocessor.
    • RLV-TD: Developing reusable launch vehicle technology.

    Space Economy

    • Space startups: 1 (2014) → 400+ (2026).
    • Space economy: $8 billion, targeted to reach $40-45 billion by 2030.
    • Major reforms: IN-SPACe, NSIL, Indian Space Policy 2023, Liberalised FDI.

    Launch Infrastructure

    • Operational launch vehicles: PSLV, GSLV, LVM3.
    • NGLV under development (30-ton LEO capacity).
    • Second spaceport: Kulasekarapattinam, Tamil Nadu.
    • Third launch pad approved at Sriharikota.

    International Cooperation

    • NISAR: ISRO-NASA
    • TRISHNA: ISRO-CNES
    • LUPEX: ISRO-JAXA
    • Human spaceflight cooperation with ESA and Russia.

    Space Applications

    • Disaster management, Telemedicine, PM e-VIDYA, India-WRIS, Potential Fishing Zone advisories, and Satellite Aided Search and Rescue (SASAR).

  • 12 Years of India’s Scientific Transformation

    Why in the news?

    Union Minister Jitendra Singh highlighted the major achievements of India’s science and technology ecosystem over the last 12 years.

    Bioeconomy Growth

    • India’s bioeconomy expanded from about USD 10 billion (2014) to over USD 190 billion (2026).
    • Target: USD 300 billion by 2030.
    • Growth driven by innovations in Biotechnology, Genomics, Diagnostics, and Biopharmaceuticals.
    • Supported by the BioE3 Policy Framework.

    Space Sector Achievements

    • Space economy grew to around USD 8 billion and is projected to reach USD 45 billion in the next decade.
    • Space startups increased from single digits to over 400.
    • Major milestones: Chandrayaan-3 became the first mission to land near the Moon’s south pole. Gaganyaan preparations underway.
    • Future goals: Bharatiya Antariksh Station by 2035. Indian Moon landing by 2040.

    Weather and Climate Services

    • Weather radars increased from 17 (2014) to nearly 50 operational radars.
    • Another 50 radars planned under Mission Mausam.
    • Forecast coverage expanded from 300 cities to nearly 1,700 locations.
    • Expansion of Lightning detection systems, Rain-monitoring infrastructure, and Nowcast services for short-term forecasts.
    • Mission Mausam: Initiative aimed at strengthening India’s weather forecasting and disaster resilience capabilities through modern observation and prediction systems.

    Biotechnology and Healthcare

    • India emerged as a global biotechnology hub.
    • Advances include Affordable CAR-T cell therapy, Genomics and precision medicine, Next-generation antibiotics, and Indigenous diagnostics and vaccines.
    • India’s COVID-19 vaccines showcased domestic scientific capability.

    CSIR Innovations

    The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) expanded its outreach through:

    • Aroma Mission promoting high-value aromatic crops.
    • Steel slag road technology converting industrial waste into road-building material.
    • Technologies in healthcare, energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing.

    Deep Ocean Technologies

    • Development of Matsya 6000, India’s manned submersible.
    • Development of Varaha, an indigenous deep-sea mining system.

    Major Scientific Initiatives

    • Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF)
    • National Quantum Mission
    • National Supercomputing Mission
    • Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund
    • National Geospatial Policy

    Nuclear Energy Reforms

    • Opening of the nuclear energy sector to greater private participation.
    • Expected to boost Investment, Innovation, and Capacity creation.

    [2022] Which one of the following is the context in which the term “qubit” is mentioned?

    [A] Cloud Services

    [B] Quantum Computing

    [C] Visible Light Communication Technologies

    [D] Wireless Communication Technologies