India’s First Space Station: Ready in 5 Years, 2047 Roadmap Includes Lunar Missions and Moon Tourism.

New Delhi: After the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) disclosed India’s space roadmap in October, the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) is optimistic about constructing the first unit of the space station within five years. Isro envisions completing the entire space station by 2035, aligning with the ambitious 2047 target for lunar missions. Isro Chairman S Somanath emphasizes the feasibility of the proposed timeline, with the goal of having the first unit ready by 2028.

Isro’s proposed space station, set to be positioned at an altitude of 120km to 140km, aims to accommodate a minimum of three astronauts for an extended duration in space. The project is subject to modifications as plans progress. Somanath’s optimism about having the first unit ready by 2028 aligns with India’s potential to construct the entire station by 2035, as outlined in the PMO’s roadmap.

The development of a Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) is a critical component of Isro’s plan for the space station. Somanath asserts that the initial unit can be achieved using the existing launch vehicle, followed by the need for the NGLV, expected around 2034-35, to complete the full space station. The NGLV’s architecture has been finalized, with a focus on partial reusability, new-generation propulsion, cryogenic propulsion for payload improvement, and manufacturability using current Indian materials.

Isro’s broader roadmap for 2047 reveals a multi-phase approach dominated by lunar missions. The three major phases include the “Technology build-up phase (2023-28),” “lunar reach-out phase (2028-40),” and “lunar base phase (2040-47).” Chandrayaan-4, a sample return mission, is already underway, and future missions, including Chandrayaan-5, 6, and 7, are outlined for the lunar reach-out phase.

Chandrayaan-5, a long-term mission, aims to leverage radioisotope heater units (RHUs) and advanced technologies to manage extreme temperature variations on the Moon. Chandrayaan-6 focuses on habitat building, while Chandrayaan-7 explores scaling up infrastructure on the Moon. Isro’s lunar roadmap envisions several unmanned lunar missions preceding the human mission to the Moon.

While these missions are currently pending government approval, the proactive approach of Prime Minister Narendra Modi towards space initiatives suggests that Isro is likely to receive the necessary support for its ambitious endeavors. The combination of lunar exploration, space station development, and advanced rocket technologies positions Isro for significant advancements in space exploration, aligning with India’s vision for the future of space missions.