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Source: The post is based on the article “Stay Grounded, Isro – The space agency’s Indian-on-the-Moon target looks within reach. But its key role is domestic tech transfer” published in The Times of India on 19th October 2023.
Syllabus: GS 3 – Science & Technology – Achievements of Indians in Science & Technology
Relevance: Achievement of ISRO and its original vision
News: ISRO is scheduled to test a flight vehicle abort mission for Gaganyaan on Saturday.
This is a crucial step towards the country’s goal of establishing an Indian space station by 2035 and sending an astronaut to the Moon by 2040. However, it is also necessary for ISRO to focus on its original vision.
What is the original vision of ISRO?
ISRO’s original vision is to act as a technological innovator in expediting India’s industrial progress.
India stands as one of only five countries globally with comprehensive space capabilities, and its satellites have made a substantial positive impact on the lives of its citizens.
For instance, ISRO’s communication satellite projects have had a number of positive impacts, including monitoring Himalayan glaciers and helping the Archaeological Survey of India with satellite maps of protected monuments.
Additionally, ISRO’s patents have made substantial contributions in areas such as chemical and polymer technology, electronics, electromechanical inventions, and materials science.
Further, ISRO has been transferring technology to Indian firms since the 1980s. This technology has been used to develop a wide range of products and services.
What lies ahead?
Although ISRO’s objectives include setting up an Indian space station and sending an astronaut to the Moon, it’s also important to understand that the agency’s core mission is to create innovative technologies that can enhance the quality of life for people in India.
In this regard, the creation of IN-SPACe is a positive step, and it should help to increase ISRO’s impact on the Indian economy.
