Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Indian Space Programme, initiated by Dr. Vikram Sarabhai in 1969, has evolved from humble beginnings to a globally recognized spacefaring nation. Recent years have witnessed a surge in activity, marked by technological breakthroughs, increased launch frequency, and a growing emphasis on commercial applications. The successful launch of Chandrayaan-3 in July 2023, landing near the lunar south pole, represents a monumental achievement, solidifying India’s position as a leading player in space exploration. This answer will discuss the recent advances and achievements of the Indian Space Programme, encompassing launch vehicle technology, satellite missions, and future prospects.
Launch Vehicle Developments
The mainstay of India’s launch capability is the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). Recent advancements include:
- PSLV-XL: Enhanced version of PSLV, capable of carrying heavier payloads. Successfully launched numerous satellites, including the Mangalyaan mission.
- GSLV Mk III (LVM3): India’s heaviest launch vehicle, crucial for deep-space missions like Chandrayaan-2 and Chandrayaan-3. Its indigenous cryogenic upper stage has been a significant achievement.
- Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV): Developed to provide cost-effective access to space for small satellites. While initial launches faced setbacks, subsequent launches have demonstrated improved reliability.
Satellite Missions – Scientific & Exploration
India has undertaken several ambitious satellite missions, both for scientific exploration and practical applications:
- Chandrayaan-2 (2019): Although the lander failed, the orbiter continues to provide valuable data about the lunar surface.
- Chandrayaan-3 (2023): A resounding success, landing near the lunar south pole and conducting in-situ scientific experiments. This mission has significantly enhanced our understanding of lunar geology and resource potential.
- Aditya-L1 (2023): India’s first solar observatory mission, placed in a halo orbit around the Sun-Earth Lagrange point L1, providing continuous observations of the Sun.
- Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission - 2013): A cost-effective mission that demonstrated India’s capability for interplanetary travel. Though its mission life ended in 2022, it provided valuable data about the Martian atmosphere.
Satellite Missions – Application Oriented
India’s satellite technology is extensively used for various applications:
- Earth Observation Satellites: Series of remote sensing satellites like Resourcesat, Cartosat, and Oceansat provide data for agriculture, disaster management, urban planning, and environmental monitoring.
- Communication Satellites: GSAT series provides telecommunication, television broadcasting, and internet services.
- Navigation Satellites: NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation), India’s indigenous navigation satellite system, provides accurate positioning services.
Emerging Technologies & Future Prospects
ISRO is actively pursuing several cutting-edge technologies:
- Reusable Launch Vehicles (RLV): Developing technology for reusable launch vehicles to reduce launch costs.
- Space-Based Solar Power: Exploring the feasibility of harnessing solar energy in space and transmitting it to Earth.
- Human Spaceflight Programme (Gaganyaan): Aiming to launch an Indian astronaut into space by 2025. This includes developing critical technologies for life support and crew escape systems.
- Private Sector Participation: Increasingly involving private companies in satellite building, launch services, and space-based applications through initiatives like IN-SPACE (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre).
Challenges
Despite significant progress, the Indian Space Programme faces challenges:
- Funding Constraints: Limited budgetary allocation compared to other major spacefaring nations.
- Technological Dependence: Reliance on foreign suppliers for certain critical components.
- Launch Failures: Occasional launch failures, like the initial SSLV launches, highlight the need for continuous improvement in reliability.
Conclusion
The Indian Space Programme has achieved remarkable milestones in recent years, particularly with the success of Chandrayaan-3 and the launch of Aditya-L1. The focus on indigenous technology development, coupled with increasing private sector participation, positions India for continued growth in the space sector. Addressing the existing challenges related to funding and technological dependence will be crucial for realizing India’s ambitious space exploration goals and establishing itself as a global leader in space technology. The Gaganyaan mission will be a defining moment for the program, paving the way for future human spaceflight endeavors.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.