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ISRO Fast-Tracks 80 Satellites & Space Station for Gaganyaan Mission

ISRO is fast-tracking the development of nearly 80 satellites to support scientific research, national security, and critical communications for the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission. The agency is concurrently advancing multiple major projects, including a planned Indian space station, reflecting the country's expanding space ambitions. The announcements were made during events commemorating the 50th anniversary of India's first indigenous satellite, Aryabhata, whose success laid the foundation for the modern space program. ISRO is also conducting nationwide student outreach programs to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.

Key Points: ISRO's 80-Satellite Plan for Space Station & Gaganyaan

  • 80 new satellites in development
  • Supports Gaganyaan human spaceflight
  • Enhances disaster management & security
  • Marks Aryabhata satellite's 50th anniversary
2 min read

ISRO fast-tracks India's space station plans, 80 satellites in pipeline

ISRO accelerates India's space station plans with 80 new satellites for research, security, and supporting the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission.

"Such missions are central to strengthening India's space-based capabilities and technological self-reliance. - Imtiyaz Ahmed"

Samastipur, Feb 9

India is making rapid progress towards establishing its own space station while simultaneously advancing the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission, ISRO Programme Director Imtiyaz Ahmed said on Monday.

Work is currently underway on nearly 80 satellites that will play a crucial role in scientific research innovation, disaster management, internal security, navigation, and relaying critical signals for the Gaganyaan mission back to Earth, the senior ISRO official said.

Speaking to IANS in Samastipur on the occasion of the golden jubilee of India's first indigenously developed satellite, Aryabhata, Ahmed noted that such missions are central to strengthening India's space-based capabilities and technological self-reliance.

He said ISRO is presently engaged in several major projects, including Earth Observation missions, Navigation with Indian Constellation (NVS), the Indian Data Relay Satellite System (IDRSS), Gaganyaan and the Venus Orbiter Mission. Together, these initiatives reflect India's expanding footprint in space science, exploration and applied technologies.

Recalling the historic launch of Aryabhata on April 19, 1975, Ahmed said the satellite, named after the ancient Indian mathematician and astronomer, represented a landmark moment in India's scientific journey. Despite limited technological resources and infrastructure during the Cold War era, the success of Aryabhata laid the foundation for future space missions and helped ISRO emerge as a globally respected space agency. Its legacy, he said, continues to inspire generations of scientists and engineers.

To mark the golden jubilee of Aryabhata, the ISRO has launched a nationwide outreach programme for school students. As part of this initiative, the first programme in Bihar was held on Monday at Holy Mission High School in Samastipur, with students from five different 10+2 schools participating.

During the programme, students were introduced to the ISRO's work and future opportunities in the space sector. Scientists also shared their personal experiences, noting that many of them studied in Hindi-medium schools, encouraging students to dream big and aspire to careers in space science and technology.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
The outreach program in Bihar schools is the best part. When scientists who studied in Hindi-medium schools share their journey, it breaks the myth that you need elite education to reach for the stars. This will inspire so many children in small towns.
R
Rohit P
80 satellites is a massive number! While I'm excited, I hope the budget is managed wisely. We have pressing needs on Earth too—better roads, healthcare. The space program should not come at the cost of neglecting basic infrastructure.
M
Michael C
As an observer from the US, India's pace in space tech is impressive. The focus on self-reliance (Atmanirbharta) is key. The IDRSS for Gaganyaan is a smart move—shows long-term planning. Collaboration with NASA on Artemis would be a game-changer.
S
Shreya B
Naming the first satellite after Aryabhata was genius. It connected our ancient scientific heritage with modern ambition. Can't wait to see an Indian astronaut on our own space station! Gaganyaan will be a historic day for the entire nation. Jai Hind!
K
Karthik V
The Venus Orbiter Mission is what excites me the most! While others are focused on the Moon and Mars, ISRO is exploring a unique target. This out-of-the-box thinking and cost-effective engineering is what makes them world-class. More power to Team ISRO!

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