India’s space mission plan for 2024- Space research: Glory and beyond

Source: The post Post-Graduate Medical Education Regulations, 2023 has been created, based on the article “Space research: Glory and beyond” published in “Business standard” on 6th January 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS paper2-Science and Technology- Space

News: The article discusses India’s advancements in space research, including its solar observatory Aditya-L1 and other missions planned for 2024. It explains the motives behind space exploration, highlighting nationalism, economic growth, technological development, and international prestige as key drivers.

What is India’s space mission plan for 2024?

Aditya-L1: Observing the solar atmosphere and contributing to the understanding of space weather from a unique vantage point at the Sun-Earth Lagrange point 1.

XPoSat: India’s first X-ray Polarimeter Satellite, dedicated to studying cosmic radiation and understanding high-energy processes in stellar and galactic systems.

Gaganyaan-1: Laying the groundwork for future manned spaceflights.

Mangalyaan-2: Orbiting Mars again to continue exploration and research.

NISAR (NASA-Isro Synthetic Aperture Radar): A collaboration with NASA for Earth observation, highlighting the importance of international partnerships.

Shukrayaan-1: Exploring Venus to expand knowledge of the solar system.

How does space research benefit India?

National Security and Prestige: Successful missions like Aditya-L1 not only enhance India’s global standing and national pride but also position it as a competitor in the global space race, traditionally dominated by powers like the U.S., Russia, and China.

Economic Growth: The Indian space economy, valued at $8.4 billion, is projected to expand to $44 billion by 2033. This growth is fueled by rising investments and a burgeoning number of space startups.

Technological Advancements: Missions necessitate technological advancements, specifically in the miniaturization of electronic components essential for spacecraft. These innovations extend to wider industries, significantly impacting the development of semiconductors and integrated circuits.

International Collaboration: Projects like NISAR with NASA show the growing importance and benefit of international partnerships in space exploration.

Start-up Ecosystem: A significant increase in space startups from 1 in 2014 to 189 in 2023, receiving investments worth $124.7 million, indicates a booming sector fueled by space research.

Question for practice:

Discuss how India’s 2024 space missions contribute to national security, economic growth, technology, and global partnerships.