70^th BPSC Mains

Approach Begin by briefly introducing ISRO’s traditional role as a launch service provider. In the body, highlight recent space exploration missions with examples and explain how they mark a shift in vision, ambition, and global perception. Conclude suitably.

Introduction

ISRO has long been known for its low-cost and reliable satellite launches, catering to both domestic needs and international clients. However, its recent missions reflect a paradigm shift from being merely a launch service provider to emerging as a leader in space exploration and planetary science.

Body

• Initial Global Role – Commercial Launch Services:
  • Between January 2015 and December 2024, ISRO commercially launched 393 foreign satellites and 3 Indian customer satellites using its PSLV, LVM3, and SSLV launch vehicles.
  • It became known as the "budget launch hub" of the world due to its reliability and cost-efficiency.
• Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission, 2013):
  • India’s first interplanetary mission, successfully placed an orbiter around Mars on the first attempt.
  • Achieved at a cost of only ₹450 crore- cheaper than Hollywood movies like "Gravity".
  • Positioned India as the first Asian nation to reach Mars and fourth globally, showcasing scientific precision and frugality.
• Chandrayaan-3 (2023):
  • India became the first country to land near the Moon’s South Pole.
  • Demonstrated capabilities in precision landing, autonomous rover operations, and indigenous design (Vikram Lander and Pragyan Rover).
  • It marked a strong leap in lunar surface exploration, shifting ISRO’s profile from Earth observation to deep space exploration.
• Aditya-L1 Mission (2023):
  • India’s first mission to study the Sun, placed at Lagrange Point 1 to observe solar activity and space weather.
  • Emphasizes India’s entry into heliophysics and space weather forecasting, critical for satellite safety and communication.
• Gaganyaan Mission:
  • India’s ambitious human spaceflight mission, aiming to send astronauts into Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
  • Involves complex technology: re-entry capsules, crew escape systems, and life support modules-all being developed indigenously.
  • It signifies India’s aspiration to join the elite human spaceflight club.
• XPoSat (2024):
  • India’s first space observatory to study X-ray polarization, showcasing ISRO’s growing investment in space science and astrophysics.
• Collaborative and Scientific Outlook – NISAR Mission (2024):
• Jointly with NASA, NISAR will monitor Earth’s surface changes, ecosystems, and climate impact, reinforcing India's role in global scientific collaboration.
• Future Missions – Shukrayaan (Proposed):
  • Planned Venus orbiter mission to study atmospheric composition and surface processes.
  • Indicates an expanding interplanetary exploration vision and long-term scientific planning.
• Strategic Shift in Vision and Perception:
  • Earlier known for its affordability, ISRO is now being recognized for technological depth and mission complexity.
  • Its missions increasingly contribute to space science, strategic security, climate monitoring, and deep space research.
• Cost-effectiveness as an Asset, Not a Limitation:
  • Missions like Mangalyaan and Chandrayaan-3 prove that low-cost does not mean low-quality.
  • This model is being seen as sustainable and replicable by other emerging space powers.
• Reputation in Global Arena:
  • ISRO is now a preferred partner for space collaborations, with countries like France, USA, and the UAE seeking cooperation.
  • Its inclusion in global projects and forums reflects a shift from service provider to policy-shaping leader in space.

Conclusion

Through missions like Mangalyaan, Chandrayaan-3, Aditya-L1, and Gaganyaan, ISRO has clearly evolved from being a launch vehicle provider to a global leader in space exploration.
Its focus on scientific excellence, interplanetary reach, technological innovation, and cost-effectiveness has positioned India at the forefront of the new space age.