India's Expanding Universe: ISRO's Ambitious Space Missions Unveiled
ISRO Director Nilesh Desai revealed the Indian government's approval for the Shukrayaan mission to Venus, launching in 2028. Plans include Chandrayaan 4 in collaboration with Japan and a pivotal Mars mission. The government has also greenlit India's first space station project, slated for completion by 2035.
- Country:
- India
In a groundbreaking announcement, Nilesh Desai, Director of ISRO, confirmed that the Indian government has approved the launch of the Shukrayaan mission, which will orbit Venus by 2028. The Shukrayaan mission marks another milestone in India's relentless pursuit of space exploration, garnering anticipation within the scientific community.
Desai further elaborated on India's lunar ambitions, revealing plans for Chandrayaan 4. In collaboration with Japan, this mission aims for a precise landing at the moon's south pole, 90 degrees south, promising significant advancements from its predecessor's attempt at 69.3 degrees south. Weighing 350 kg, the new rover epitomizes a monumental scale-up in technology, contingent upon government approval for a potential 2030 execution.
Illustrating ISRO's broader ambitions, Desai discussed potential advancements in meteorological sensors within the INSAT 4 series, aiming to bridge the global technological gap. Additionally, plans for Mars include landing on the red planet's surface and advancing towards constructing an Indian space station by 2035. This strategic transit station would align with Prime Minister Modi's vision for a lunar mission by 2040, signifying India's burgeoning influence in space exploration.
(With inputs from agencies.)