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ISRO Chief Announces New Launch Timelines: Gaganyaan in 2026, Chandrayaan-4 in 2028, NISAR in 2025

October 27, 2024, 12:37 pm

During the Sardar Patel Memorial Lecture at Akashvani (All India Radio) on Saturday, ISRO Chairman S. Somanath revealed updated timelines for several significant space missions, as reported by The Indian Express. The eagerly awaited Gaganyaan manned space mission is expected to launch in 2026, while the Chandrayaan-4 sample return mission is scheduled for 2028. Additionally, the India-US joint NISAR project is set for launch in 2025.

Somanath also announced plans for Chandrayaan-5, a collaborative moon-landing mission with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). Formerly known as LUPEX (Lunar Polar Exploration), specific dates for this mission were not provided, but it is expected to occur after 2028. He highlighted that the mission will include an Indian lander and a Japanese rover, underscoring its scientific significance and its contribution to future human landings on the moon.

The ISRO Chairman expressed ambitions for a manned lunar mission by 2040 and emphasized the necessity of expanding India’s space sector to increase its global contribution from the current 2 percent to at least 10 percent within this decade. He stressed the importance of private sector involvement and new policies to promote entrepreneurship in the space industry.

Somanath noted that many industries, both large and small, have expressed interest in investing in the space sector, and ISRO is actively facilitating their participation. He pointed out that numerous activities that were once the sole domain of ISRO are now being carried out by private companies, marking a significant transformation in India’s space exploration landscape.

Watch: ISRO Chief Praises Elon Musk’s Spacex For Revolutionary “Chopsticks” Rocket Maneuver

October 26, 2024, 4:08 pm

At an event at IIT Delhi, ISRO chief S Somanath commended SpaceX founder Elon Musk for advancing space technology with innovative feats like the Starship “chopsticks” maneuver, which aims to improve rocket reusability. SpaceX recently made history by using a unique mid-air “catch” technique, employing mechanical “chopsticks” on the launch tower, known as Mechazilla, to secure Starship’s massive Super Heavy booster upon descent. By avoiding ocean landings, this approach promises to reduce costs and turnaround time, boosting efficiency in space travel.

“Elon Musk is inspiring the world with his cutting-edge rockets and reusable technologies,” Somanath said, noting that Musk’s breakthroughs make space exploration more appealing. “Space is becoming attractive and accessible, inspiring young people to look at it with passion,” he added. His comments underscored Musk’s impact on global space interest, which continues to push technological boundaries, making space exploration cheaper and more sustainable.

#WATCH | At IIT Delhi, ISRO chief S Somanath says, “…The person there in the US, Elon Musk, is making, heads turn with the type of rockets that he has captured with the chopsticks recently and people are asking when ISRO is going to do this… Everyone is looking at Elon Musk,… pic.twitter.com/g4Yc2ZvAQ6

— ANI (@ANI) October 26, 2024

India’s space sector, Somanath explained, is also evolving, with increased private participation encouraged by recent government policies aimed at opening space exploration. “There’s a growing focus on accessibility, economic impact, and job creation in the space industry,” he said, emphasizing the need to expand beyond controlled knowledge to create value and innovation.

The October 13 Starship “catch” maneuver represents a step closer to SpaceX’s goal of reusability, which could make the moon a regular destination for scientific exploration. As Musk’s company considers new ventures, including in-orbit refueling for Starship missions, the bold vision has garnered international attention, with outlets like CNN calling it a “huge leap” for space exploration.

Ratan Tata’s Loss is Deeply Saddening for All of Us: ISRO Chief S Somanath

October 10, 2024, 2:02 pm

Following the death of industrialist Ratan Tata, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman S Somanath expressed his deep sorrow on Thursday, highlighting Tata’s immense contributions to Indian industry and society.

Speaking about Tata’s passing, Somanath stated, “Ratan Tata has been one of the leading industrial figures, respected and admired by everyone. This loss is something we should all be very sad about.” Tata, Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons, passed away at the age of 86 on Wednesday night at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai.

Somanath emphasized the ethical values that have defined the Tata Group under Ratan Tata’s leadership. “The tradition of an ethical way of doing business has been a hallmark of the Tatas. Ratan Tata symbolizes this leadership, fostering a business ecosystem that values education, philanthropy, and democratic involvement,” he said.

Reflecting on his personal connection, Somanath mentioned his time at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), which was originally called Tata Institute. “Tata’s contributions extended beyond business, shaping institutions that prioritize education and the well-being of staff, demonstrating a culture of involvement,” he added.

Public Honors and Final Journey

Ratan Tata’s mortal remains were placed at the lawns of the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) at Nariman Point in Mumbai, allowing the public to pay their last respects. According to Tata Trust, the final journey to the Prayer Hall at Worli Crematorium was scheduled for 4 PM on Thursday.

National Mourning Declared

The Maharashtra state government declared one day of mourning to honor the veteran industrialist. Tributes poured in from across the country, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Ministers from various states expressing their condolences.

Ratan Tata, born on December 28, 1937, in Mumbai, led the Tata Group as Chairman of Tata Sons from 1991 until his retirement in 2012, when he was appointed Chairman Emeritus. He also chaired the Ratan Tata Trust and Dorabji Tata Trust, two of India’s largest philanthropic organizations.

Tata was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honor, in 2008. His legacy as an ethical leader, philanthropist, and visionary will continue to inspire future generations.

ISRO Chief S. Somanath Explains Sunita Williams’ Space Situation

August 18, 2024, 7:33 pm

In a recent interview with Hindustan Times, ISRO Chief S. Somanath addressed the challenges faced by Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams, who has been on an extended space mission for the past six months. The delay is attributed to issues with the spacecraft developed by Boeing, which has affected the planned return schedule.

Challenges with the Spacecraft

Somanath explained that the mission involved testing a new spacecraft, which has experienced some technical issues. “There were teething troubles with the spacecraft before the mission. After docking with the International Space Station (ISS), we identified anomalies including helium gas leaks and malfunctioning thrusters,” he said.

The ISRO Chief noted that these problems have necessitated further analysis. Boeing, the spacecraft developer, is conducting additional simulations to ensure the spacecraft’s safety for a return mission.

Extended Mission and Safety Concerns

When asked about the term “stuck in space,” Somanath clarified that while the situation might appear critical, it’s part of a careful assessment process. “Sunita Williams is not truly stuck; rather, her stay is extended while we ensure the spacecraft is safe for return,” he stated.

Williams, a veteran astronaut, is experienced in extended stays on the ISS, which mitigates some concerns. The primary focus remains on ensuring that the spacecraft’s systems, including its control and thermal protection systems, function correctly for a safe return.

Implications for Future Missions

Somanath emphasized the lessons learned from this situation for India’s Gaganyaan mission. “We need to be prepared for technical issues that could arise. Planning for such contingencies is crucial for the safety of our astronauts,” he said.

He highlighted the importance of designing spacecraft that can handle unexpected challenges, ensuring that India’s space missions are robust and safe.

Conclusion

The extended mission of Sunita Williams underscores the complexities of space travel and the critical need for thorough testing and preparation. As ISRO continues to monitor the situation, the lessons learned will be invaluable for future space endeavors, including the ambitious Gaganyaan mission.

‘Need skills to go far beyond Earth’s orbit’: ISRO chief Somanath.

April 16, 2024, 2:20 pm

The Chief of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has recently opined that in order to go beyond the Earth’s orbit, there is a recent need to develop skills.

“Need to Develop Skills”

Speaking recently at the 42nd edition of the Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC), the ISRO chief S Somnath has recently said.

“We also need to develop skills, especially when you are looking at future exploration, possibly not within the Earth’s orbit, but also far beyond Earth’s orbit, especially in the Earth-moon systems as well as in solar planetary exploration. I think all those areas are also becoming crowded. Especially domains like the moon are also becoming crowded. I believe that this group will be looking at that aspect as well in greater detail in the coming days…,”

He further Said India is undertaking the process to create mechanisms and structures to make sure that debris isn’t produced much.

“We are creating mechanisms and structures within the space systems so that impact generated debris is not propagated substantially in large numbers. A lot of this has been going on in the last many years very well. We need all those activities much stronger in the coming days, “said Somnath. Later issuing a declaration that by 2030, India will aim to create debris free space.

Non-Functional Space Objects

While talking about non-functional space objects, the ISRO Chief further said “As far as ISRO is concerned we have a very clear laid out program in space exploration and space utilization. Currently we have 54 spacecraft in our orbit, plus there are non-functional objects. We have been taking very careful action wherever it is possible to dispose of or remove the space object from its active role once it is over and re-orbit and bring it to a safe location…”

400 Km Orbit Under Protection

He further proposed to ensure that the orbit within the ambit of 400 kilometers is under protection.

Speaking more about this he said

“Our long-term space program definitely looks at debris and its mitigation as one of the important topics. With the goal of building a space station in the coming days, we look at an orbit where there are more space stations coming up at 400 km. I think this area should be protected for sustained human presence in space,”

Need To Relook Space Agreements

Later during the course of the inaugural speech, he stressed on the review of various space agreements to lessen the level of debris generation in the space.

ISRO Chairman Emphasizes India’s Indigenous Capability in Space Sector

April 4, 2024, 12:19 am

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman S Somanath stated that the space program has developed “indigenous capability” within the space sector, emphasizing that they have their own initiatives and strategies to determine future endeavors in this field on Wednesday.

Today, S Somanath visited Kalam’s Institute of Youth Excellence in Hyderabad and honored students.

“The space program has built indigenous capability in space sector from building our rockets, satellites and our application programs to serve the country in civilian and strategic sectors. We have accomplished that. Today, we are a forced reckon in the space sector and we have our own programs and ways to decide what to do with that in future. That is the power we have today. Now, with the opening of the space sector, private companies and start-ups are coming and this area is going to expand in terms of economic activity in space sector. The change is what is happening now,” he said.

Additionally, Somnath remarked that Kalam’s Institute of Youth Excellence has been diligently striving to motivate the youth.

“They have been working very hard to inspire young people especially to what Kalam did in the past, creating an inspirational story around India’s growth. Today I got the opportunity to interact with the students and I believe it will make them easier to understand the path they will take in the space sector. ISRO will help in best possible way to help them,” he said.

Previously, Director General of the European Space Agency (ESA), Josef Aschbacher, commended the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for its recent series of successful launches, emphasizing that India’s achievements in space, particularly in lunar exploration, are ‘astonishing’.

Aschbacher shared an appreciation post on X following ESA’s 323rd Council meeting in Paris, which was attended by Somanath.

“What India is accomplishing in space – especially in Lunar exploration – is astonishing. We hosted ISRO’s Chairman, Dr. S. Somanath at ESA Council today. It was a milestone occasion for Delegates to learn more about current and future plans for ESA-ISRO cooperation,” he posted on X.

India has now become the first nation to approach the Moon’s unexplored South Pole and is ranked among the top four nations to achieve a soft landing on the lunar surface.

PM Modi Praises ISRO’s “Relentless Dedication” as Aditya-L1 Achieves Solar Mission Milestone

January 6, 2024, 5:14 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for the successful achievement of a major milestone in India’s solar mission. As the Aditya-L1 spacecraft reached its designated destination, the Lagrange Point L1, Prime Minister Modi praised the scientists for their “extraordinary feat” and emphasized that this accomplishment is a testament to their “relentless dedication.”

India creates yet another landmark. India’s first solar observatory Aditya-L1 reaches it’s destination. It is a testament to the relentless dedication of our scientists in realising among the most complex and intricate space missions. I join the nation in applauding this…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 6, 2024

In a post on social media platform ‘X’, PM Modi stated, “India creates yet another landmark. India’s first solar observatory Aditya-L1 reaches its destination. It is a testament to the relentless dedication of our scientists in realizing among the most complex and intricate space missions.” He further added, “I join the nation in applauding this extraordinary feat. We will continue to pursue new frontiers of science for the benefit of humanity.”

Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh, also celebrated the achievement, terming it a “glorious turn of the year for Bharat.” Singh highlighted the success as another testament to Team ISRO’s accomplishments under the visionary leadership of PM Modi. Aditya-L1’s arrival at its final orbit marks a crucial step in unraveling the mysteries of the Sun-Earth connection.

The Aditya-L1 solar observatory, India’s first space-based mission dedicated to studying the Sun, is expected to provide valuable insights into solar activity and contribute to a better understanding of space weather phenomena.

ISRO’s Aditya-L1 Successfully Reaches Final Orbit at Lagrange Point L1, Prepares to Unravel Solar Mysteries

January 6, 2024, 4:47 pm

The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has verified the Aditya-L1 spacecraft’s safe arrival at Lagrange Point L1, located 1.5 million kilometers from Earth, marking a noteworthy accomplishment. An important first step has been taken for India’s first space-based solar observatory, which aims to unravel the secrets of the Sun, with the successful injection into its final orbit.

The Aditya-L1 spacecraft is set to enter a halo orbit around Lagrange Point 1 (L1) in the Sun-Earth system, strategically positioned 1.5 million kilometers away from our planet. This critical location, representing about one percent of the Earth-Sun distance, provides an ideal vantage point for observing the Sun continuously.

Greetings from Aditya-L1!

I’ve safely arrived at Lagrange Point L1, 1.5 million km from my home planet. ?Excited to be far away, yet intimately connected to unravel the solar mysteries #ISRO pic.twitter.com/BCudJgTmMN

— ISRO ADITYA-L1 (@ISRO_ADITYAL1) January 6, 2024

ISRO officials have outlined plans for periodic maneuvers to maintain the spacecraft in its intended orbit. These maneuvers are crucial for ensuring that Aditya-L1 remains in a prime position to utilize its seven specialized payloads. These payloads are equipped to observe and study various layers of the Sun, including the photosphere, chromosphere, and the outermost layer known as the corona. The observations will utilize a range of electromagnetic and particle detectors, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of solar activities.

The Aditya-L1 mission is a testament to India’s growing prowess in space exploration and solar research. The spacecraft’s strategic positioning at L1 allows for constant surveillance of the Sun, enabling scientists to monitor solar phenomena such as solar flares and solar wind, and their potential impact on Earth.

As ISRO enters the phase of performing periodic maneuvers, the Aditya-L1 mission is poised to unravel critical insights into the dynamics of the Sun, contributing significantly to solar science and enhancing India’s standing in space exploration.

India’s Aditya-L1 Nears Solar Observation Position After 4-Month Journey

January 6, 2024, 11:57 am

India’s maiden solar observation venture, Aditya-L1, is on the brink of attaining its designated orbit, signifying a significant leap in its mission to continuously monitor the Sun. Launched on September 2 from Sriharikota, the spacecraft has journeyed towards the Sun for four months, and this Saturday, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is poised to execute a pivotal maneuver to position Aditya-L1 at Lagrange point 1 (L1), enabling uninterrupted solar observations.

Aditya-L1 Mission:
The second Earth-bound maneuvre (EBN#2) is performed successfully from ISTRAC, Bengaluru.

ISTRAC/ISRO’s ground stations at Mauritius, Bengaluru and Port Blair tracked the satellite during this operation.

The new orbit attained is 282 km x 40225 km.

The next… pic.twitter.com/GFdqlbNmWg

— ISRO (@isro) September 4, 2023

Named after Surya, the Hindu god of the Sun, Aditya-L1’s mission entails the comprehensive study of various solar layers, including the corona, photosphere, and chromosphere. L1 signifies the Lagrange point between the Sun and Earth, where gravitational forces balance, allowing the spacecraft to “hover.” The spacecraft aims to reach L1, situated 1.5 million km from Earth, representing 1% of the Earth-Sun distance.

ISRO’s final maneuver, scheduled for Saturday at 16:00 India time, aims to secure Aditya-L1 in L1’s orbit. ISRO Chief S Somanath underscores the necessity of occasional maneuvers to maintain the spacecraft’s position post-trapping. Attaining this “parking spot” will enable Aditya-L1 to orbit the Sun at Earth’s rate, ensuring continuous observation, even during eclipses and occultations.

Aditya-L1 is equipped with seven scientific instruments, concentrating on solar corona, photosphere, and chromosphere observation. Following lift-off, the spacecraft orbited Earth four times before breaking free from Earth’s influence on September 30. A minor trajectory correction in early October ensured the spacecraft adhered to its intended path towards the final destination.

Some instruments on board have already initiated data collection and image capture. ISRO released initial images shortly after lift-off, including a frame featuring Earth and the Moon, and a “selfie” displaying two scientific instruments. Last month, the agency unveiled full-disk images of the Sun, offering insights into the photosphere and chromosphere.

Scientists anticipate that Aditya-L1’s mission will advance the understanding of solar activity, such as solar wind, flares, and their impact on Earth and near-space weather. Aditya-L1’s role in predicting solar winds or eruptions could contribute to safeguarding satellites, aligning with the mission’s broader goal of enhancing space weather predictions.

While ISRO has not officially disclosed the mission’s cost, reports suggest it may amount to 3.78 billion rupees ($46 million). The successful execution of Saturday’s maneuver will position India among a select group of countries actively studying the Sun, alongside agencies like NASA and ESA in this pioneering pursuit. NASA’s Solar Orbiter, launched jointly with ESA in 2020, and the Parker Solar Probe, which made history in 2021 by flying through the Sun’s corona, exemplify global efforts in solar exploration.

ISRO begins New Year with another feat

January 2, 2024, 1:26 am

Minutes after the X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat) to study X-ray emission from various celestial sources was launched successfully, ISRO announced that the lift-off was normal.
Addressing the scientists after the successful launch of the mission, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chief S Somanath said the PSLV-C58 vehicle placed the satellite precisely into the intended orbit of 650 km, with a 6-degree inclination.

“From this point, the orbit of the PSLV will be reduced to a lower orbit, where the upper stage of the PSLV which is now described as POEM will carry out experiments with nine of the onboard payloads and that will take some time,” Somanath added.
He said the orbit is “excellent” and the distance from the targetted orbit is just 3 kms in circular orbit of 650 kms. Inclination is 0.01 degree, which is one of the excellent conditions.

He also apprised that the solar panel of the launched satellite has been deployed sucessfully.
The satellite that was launched from Sriharikota spaceport on Monday at 9.10 am, as scheduled, among others, would offer insights into space-based polarisation measurements of X-ray emission from various celestial sources.

The objective of the mission is to measure polarisation of X-rays in the energy band 8-30keV emanating from about 50 potential cosmic sources through Thomson Scattering by POLIX payload. To carry out long term spectral and temporal studies of cosmic X-ray sources in the energy band 0.8-15keV by XSPECT payload. To carry out polarisation and spectroscopic measurements of X-ray emissions from cosmic sources by POLIX and XSPECT payloads respectively in the common energy band.

The emission mechanism from various astronomical sources such as blackhole, neutron stars, active galactic nuclei, pulsar wind nebulae etc. originates from complex physical processes and are challenging to understand. The exact nature of the emission from such sources still poses deeper challenges to astronomers. The polarimetry measurements add two more dimension to understanding, the degree of polarization and the angle of polarization and thus is a diagnostic tool to understand the emission processes from astronomical sources.

In a stellar display of prowess, India soared to new heights in 2023 with the successful soft landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the south pole of moon and the launch of Aditya-L1, India’s first solar mission.
These milestones not only secured India’s standing in the global space economy but also fueled the engines for the private space sector in India.

Among other feats India now aims for are the Gaganyaan Mission in 2024, setting up ‘Bharatiya Antariksha Station’ by 2035, and sending the first Indian to the Moon by 2040.

Amit Shah congratulates ISRO on successful launch of XPoSat astronomy satellite

January 1, 2024, 1:52 pm

Union Home Minister Amit Shah extended his heartfelt congratulations to the ISRO scientists for their remarkable achievement on the first day of the New Year 2024.

“Brightening up the cosmos in pursuit of knowledge on the very first day of 2024 you have proven yet again that your might is our pride,” Amit Shah wrote on his X timeline.
“Congratulations to our @isro scientists on the historic launch of specialized astronomy observatory satellite XPoSat to study black holes and neutron stars in our galaxy.”

The X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat) was successfully launched at 9.10 am on Monday, and its lift-off proceeded smoothly, marking a significant milestone in India’s space exploration endeavors.

Following the triumphant mission launch, the head of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), S Somanath, delivered a speech to the scientific community. He proudly announced that the PSLV-C58 vehicle had flawlessly positioned the satellite into its designated orbit of 650 km, maintaining a precise inclination of 6 degrees.

Somanath further explained that the PSLV would subsequently be maneuvered to a lower orbit, where the upper stage, known as POEM, would conduct experiments with nine onboard payloads. This process will require some time to complete. Notably, this mission marks India’s first foray into the study of black holes, a domain previously explored by other nations.

Somanath emphasized that the development of this satellite spanned seven years, with the aim of fostering a cohort of 100 scientists capable of comprehending and contributing to the global understanding of black holes.

India’s achievements in the field of space exploration have been remarkable, with significant milestones reached in 2023, including the successful soft landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the moon’s south pole and the launch of Aditya-L1, India’s inaugural solar mission.

India achieved remarkable success in 2023, as it demonstrated its exceptional capabilities by accomplishing the soft landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the moon’s south pole and launching Aditya-L1, its inaugural solar mission. These significant milestones not only solidified India’s position in the global space industry but also ignited the growth of the private space sector within the country.

Among other achievements, India has set ambitious goals for the future. The Gaganyaan Mission is scheduled for 2024-2025, aiming to send Indian astronauts into space. Additionally, India plans to establish the ‘Bharatiya Antariksha Station’ by 2035, further expanding its presence in space exploration. Furthermore, India aspires to send its first astronaut to the Moon by 2040, marking a historic achievement for the nation.

ISRO Chief S Somanath: On October 21,ISRO to conduct maiden Gaganyaan test vehicle mission

October 15, 2023, 9:36 am

The first test flight for the “TV-D1” (Test Vehicle Development Flight 1), a component of the Indian astronaut project Gaganyaan, will occur on October 21, according to ISRO Chief Dr. S. Somanath on Saturday. He promised that at least three additional tests of the same kind would be conducted after D1. The crew module that will house Indian astronauts during human spaceflight later next year will be tested during the test vehicle development flight (TV-D1) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

“Test Vehicle-D1 mission is scheduled for October 21. This is the Gaganyaan program. The Gaganyaan program requires testing, demonstrating the crew escape system. The crew escape system is a very critical system in Gaganyaan,” Somanath told reporters in Madurai.
TV-D1 involves launching the crew module to outer space, bringing it back to earth and recovering it after touchdown in the Bay of Bengal.
“So this test is to demonstrate that crew escape system in one condition of the flight. So this condition we are demonstrating is called the Transonic condition… Every month we will have at least one launch. After this test vehicle launch, we have GSLV. Then we have SSLV. Then after that, the Gaganyaan unmanned mission will be there. In between there will be a PSLV launch. So before January, you will see at least 4-5 launches,” Somanath said.