India is on the verge of expanding its presence in space through a series of groundbreaking projects. Following the successful launch of the Gaganyaan mission, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) aims to establish the country's first space station by 2035 and achieve a manned lunar landing by 2040. These initiatives, unfolding during the period referred to as 'Amrit Kaal' by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, build upon the foundation laid by Gaganyaan, marking India's entry into manned spaceflights.
The Bharatiya Antariksha Station (BAS), officially announced in 2019, embodies India's vision for its orbital space station. Initially set for completion in 2030, the timeline has now shifted to 2035 due to the pandemic's impact. The BAS, expected to weigh around 20 tonnes, will orbit 400 km above Earth, with the first module projected for launch in 2028. This development mirrors the accomplishments of existing space stations, such as the International Space Station (ISS) and China’s Tiangong Space Station, while drawing inspiration from historical milestones like the Soviet Union’s Salyut and Mir stations.
India's space station project has attracted international interest, with NASA expressing a willingness to collaborate, including plans to host an Indian astronaut on the ISS by the end of 2024. ISRO's progression towards the space station is incremental, with the Gaganyaan mission laying the essential groundwork. Innovations such as a fuel cell-based power system (FCPS), tested in early 2023, showcase India's commitment to sustainable and human-friendly space exploration.
By 2040, ISRO is aiming to send an astronaut to the Moon, utilizing insights from the Chandrayaan-3 mission and aligning with global efforts such as NASA’s Artemis Accords. This mission not only represents India’s expanding capabilities in space exploration but also emphasizes the potential for international partnerships and private sector involvement in exploring new celestial frontiers.
India’s strategic advancements in space exploration, ranging from manned missions to establishing a space station and landing on the Moon, highlight a comprehensive vision for 'Amrit Kaal.' These projects reflect a synergy of national ambition, scientific inquiry, and global collaboration, positioning India prominently in the upcoming era of space exploration.
Q1. What is the Gaganyaan mission?
Answer: The Gaganyaan mission is India's first manned spaceflight initiative, aiming to send astronauts into low Earth orbit. It marks a significant step in India's space exploration efforts.
Q2. When is India planning to establish its space station?
Answer: India plans to establish the Bharatiya Antariksha Station by 2035. This space station will enhance India's capabilities in space research and exploration.
Q3. What are the goals of India's Moon mission?
Answer: India aims to send an astronaut to the Moon by 2040. This mission will build on the successes of the Chandrayaan-3 mission and promote international collaboration.
Q4. How does India’s space program foster international collaboration?
Answer: India's space program, particularly through projects like the Gaganyaan mission and its future space station, encourages international partnerships, such as collaboration with NASA.
Q5. What role does the Amrit Kaal play in India's space endeavors?
Answer: 'Amrit Kaal' signifies a period of growth and opportunity in India, during which ambitious projects like the Gaganyaan mission and the space station are being developed to enhance India's role in global space exploration.
Question 1: What is the primary goal of the Gaganyaan mission?
A) To explore Mars
B) To send astronauts into space
C) To establish a space station
D) To develop satellite technology
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: By what year does India plan to complete its space station?
A) 2030
B) 2035
C) 2040
D) 2028
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: Which organization is collaborating with ISRO for the space station?
A) ESA
B) NASA
C) Roscosmos
D) CNSA
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What technological innovation is tested for the space station's power system?
A) Solar panels
B) Fuel cell-based power system
C) Nuclear energy
D) Wind turbines
Correct Answer: B
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