Q15.What is India’s plan to have its space station and how will it benefit our space programme?

India aims to establish its indigenous space station, 'Bharatiya Antariksh Station', by 2035, with a lunar landing target by 2040, signifying a major leap in its space exploration ambitions.

This ambitious project envisions a 20-ton module orbiting at 400 km, capable of accommodating astronauts for 15-20 days to conduct diverse scientific experiments in a microgravity environment.

• Facilitates advanced microgravity research in fields like biology, materials science, and fundamental physics.
• Enhances human spaceflight capabilities, serving as a crucial follow-up and extension to the Gaganyaan mission.
• Boosts indigenous technology development in critical areas such as life support systems, docking mechanisms, propulsion, and robotics.
• Strengthens India's position as a major space power, fostering international collaboration and ensuring strategic autonomy in space exploration.

The space station is pivotal for India's long-term space ambitions, ensuring scientific progress, technological self-reliance, and strategic independence in the global arena.