ISRO Chairman S. Somanath announced on Wednesday that the Indian Space Research Organisation plans to launch the first module of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS-1) by 2028. Speaking to reporters in New Delhi, he explained that the Chandrayaan-4 mission aims to demonstrate the technology needed for a moon landing and return, a capability already shown by Chandrayaan-3. He noted the necessity of having confidence in technology for future human space exploration, referring to a vision set by the Prime Minister for missions by 2040.
Somanath stated that the Indian Space Station has a goal timeline of 2035, with plans set to launch BAS-1 by 2028. In related developments, the Union cabinet, led by Prime Minister Modi, has approved the construction of BAS-1 as part of the Gaganyaan programme, which has been expanded to incorporate new developments for BAS and associated precursor missions.
The Gaganyaan initiative, approved in December 2018, aims to facilitate human spaceflight to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) while establishing the foundational technologies required for India’s future human space exploration endeavors. This vision includes the operationalization of BAS by 2035 and a crewed lunar mission by 2040, aligning with similar efforts from other leading space-faring nations.
Under the revised Gaganyaan programme, ISRO intends to conduct eight missions by December 2028, culminating in the launch of BAS-1. The initiative encourages national collaboration among ISRO, industries, academic institutions, and other governmental entities to advance critical technologies for long-duration human space missions.
This program is expected to enhance India’s technological capabilities for LEO missions, foster microgravity research, and stimulate economic growth and employment in advanced technology sectors. With an additional funding of Rs 11,170 Crore, the total budget for the Gaganyaan programme now stands at Rs 20,193 Crore, providing young people in India unique career opportunities in science and technology, particularly in microgravity research and technological innovation that benefits society as a whole.
