In 2024, India’s space sector is witnessing a transformative phase, bolstered by significant policy reforms, international collaborations, and burgeoning private sector involvement. This year is pivotal, building on the remarkable achievements of 2023 and setting the stage for an ambitious future in space exploration and technology.
Major Achievements in 2023
- Chandrayaan-3 and Aditya-L1 Missions: India’s space prowess was notably showcased with the successful launches of Chandrayaan-3, its lunar mission, and Aditya-L1, the country’s first solar mission. These missions not only reinforced India’s position in the global space arena but also served as a catalyst for the burgeoning private space sector.
- International Collaborations: Strengthening its global ties, India entered strategic alliances with key international players like the USA and France. The agreements included partnerships on emerging space technologies and the joining of the Artemis Accord. A significant aspect of this collaboration is the NISAR satellite, scheduled for launch in the first quarter of 2024, exemplifying India’s commitment to international space exploration.
The Private Sector’s Pivotal Role
- Launch of OneWeb Satellites: In a major boost to the private sector, ISRO/NSIL successfully launched the second batch of 36 OneWeb satellites in March 2023. OneWeb India, marking its prominence, became the first company to receive approval from the Indian space regulator IN-SPACe for satellite broadband services, paving the way for space-based communication services in India.
- Telecommunications Bill, 2023: The passing of this bill represents a significant milestone, as it allows for the administrative allocation of satellite spectrum. This development is poised to stimulate growth in the satellite communication sector and bridge the digital divide, especially in remote rural areas.
Surge of Space Startups
- Dhruva Space and Skyroot Aerospace: Dhruva Space’s significant achievements include launching satellite orbital deployers and the Dhruva Space Satellite Orbiter Link. Skyroot Aerospace, another trailblazer, inaugurated India’s largest private integrated rocket development facility and introduced Vikram-1, a multi-stage launch vehicle.
- Funding and Growth: The Indian space startup landscape has seen remarkable growth, with a total funding of $123.90 million in 2023 and the emergence of 54 new startups. This takes the total number of space startups in India to 204, highlighting the sector’s vibrant and innovative ecosystem.
Policy and Regulatory Developments
- New Space Policy 2023: Announced in April 2023, this policy marks a turning point by allowing private entities to engage in a wide range of space activities. It opens doors for future ventures like asteroid mining and sets a comprehensive framework for the private sector’s involvement in space exploration.
- Anticipation of the Space Activity Bill: The Space Activity Bill, once enacted, is expected to provide a legal foundation for India’s space policy on the international stage. It is poised to define the roles of various agencies such as ISRO, IN-SPACe, and non-governmental entities, thereby facilitating foreign direct investment (FDI) in the sector.
Looking Forward
The Indian Space Association (ISpA) underscores the need for the early approval of the Space Activity Bill, which is seen as crucial for global recognition of the Indian space sector. The combination of the Indian Space Policy and the Space Activity Bill is set to streamline operations, attract investments, and provide a legal framework, propelling India as a key player in the global space economy.
As we move through 2024, India stands at the cusp of a new era in space exploration. The synergistic efforts of the government, private sector innovation, and international collaborations are driving the country towards a future where it is not just a participant but a leader in space technology and exploration.