A Call to Support Private Players in Space Technology - News

As highlighted by S Somanath, Chairman, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), private players in space technology are poised to accelerate research. He emphasized the significant contributions of private entities like Space Exploration Technologies Corp (SpaceX), noting their advancements in rocket engines and human flight vehicles. 

In India, companies like Skyroot Aerospace Pvt Ltd and Agnikul Cosmos Pvt Ltd are already making significant strides in space technology, testing launch vehicles, and contributing to the nation’s space ambitions. In this regard, Somanath further stressed the importance of government support for private companies to develop capabilities rapidly, citing the technology transfer from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to SpaceX as an example of progress.

Regarding the country’s lunar exploration plans, he revealed insights into Chandrayaan-4, which is part of a continuous moon exploration strategy. Chandrayaan-4 aims to collect moon samples, a crucial step towards the country’s goal of landing on the moon by 2040 and enabling future human spaceflights.