The Union Cabinet approved the establishment of India’s indigenous space station—the Bharatiya Antariksha Station—in September 2024, marking the nation’s ambitious entry into the realm of space stations.1 But why do we need our own space station? Here are 5 key takeaways:
1. The next breakthrough in research capabilities
As humanity continues to evolve, groundbreaking technologies are reshaping every aspect of our lives. The establishment of a permanent space station can be the next step in advancing these capabilities. Such a facility would house advanced laboratories capable of conducting microgravity experiments, significantly accelerating research in crucial fields, such as physics, material science and life sciences
2. New economic opportunities
The space station can not only drive scientific breakthroughs but also unlock vast commercial opportunities, including satellite launches, manned missions and technology transfer. For instance, estimates suggest that the global space industry could surge to USD1 trillion by 2040.2 This can position India to capture a larger share of the global market
3. Strengthening India’s global position
The establishment of a space station will place India among an exclusive group of nations with such capabilities, enhancing its status as a global space power and establishing it as a leader in space technology and innovation
4. Development of indigenous technologies
According to estimates, India’s space economy is projected to reach USD40 billion by 2040.3 Building and operating the space station will require developing and sourcing of advanced technologies and materials, such as life support systems and docking mechanisms. This presents significant opportunities for India’s domestic sector to develop indigenous technologies
