India to launch space station by 2035, aims for Moon landing by 2040
New Delhi: India will establish its own space station, named "Bharatiya Antriksh Station" (BAS), by 2035, according to Dr Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology. Dr Singh made the announcement during the signing of a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT). The MoU, he said, aims to integrate biotechnology with space technology, marking a new chapter in India's scientific innovation.
Collaboration to drive scientific growth
The MoU outlines several initiatives, including the development of BAS and the introduction of the 'BioE3' (biotechnology for economy, environment and employment) policy. This collaboration will focus on crucial areas such as microgravity research, space biotechnology, space biomanufacturing, bioastronautics, and space biology. The minister commended ISRO Chairman S. Somnath and DBT Secretary Dr Rajesh Gokhale for their pivotal roles in establishing this partnership.
Public-private partnerships boosting space sector
Dr Singh highlighted the role of public-private partnerships in the rapid growth of India's space sector, noting the significant rise in space startups. “The public-private participation has been instrumental in the rapid growth of India’s space sector," he said, adding that nearly 300 startups are now contributing to the space economy.
Impacts on space and health programmes
This partnership is expected to benefit India’s national human space programme, fostering innovations in human health research, regenerative medicine, and bio-based technologies, including efficient waste management and recycling solutions. Dr Singh also praised DBT’s development of the first-ever DNA vaccine, which earned India global recognition.
Bharatiya Antriksh Station plans in motion
In September, the Union Cabinet approved India's fourth mission to the Moon and authorised the construction of the first unit of BAS by 2028. The government aims to have an Indian space station by 2035 and an Indian landing on the Moon by 2040. The Cabinet's approval of BAS-1's first module marks the beginning of this ambitious journey.
With IANS inputs