Mission Overview:
- NISAR is a joint Earth Science mission of NASA and ISRO.
- It will use the synthetic aperture radar technology to observe changes in the Earth’s surface.
Launch Update:
- The launch, which was earlier scheduled during the first half of 2024, has now been rescheduled for March 2025 due to:
- Corrective actions undertaken for the 12-meter Radar Antenna Reflector that was taken to the USA for fixes and returned to ISRO in October 2024.
- Tests are continuous and adverse conditions prevail during the eclipse season for the deployment of the boom and antenna reflector.
Challenges in Space Exploration:
- The development of complex technologies requires:
- Long cycles of conceptualization, design, prototype development, testing, and reviews.
- Iterations and supply chain challenges.
- International collaborations have to face additional challenges, such as:
- Geopolitical issues.
- Aligning mission objectives with national priorities.
- Availability of resources and infrastructure in time.
Technological Advancements:
- ISRO is focusing on:
- Advanced propulsion systems.
- Sensor technologies and docking systems.
- Satellite navigation, quantum communication, and optical satellite systems.
- Stage recovery capability of launch vehicles.
Future Missions:
- Chandrayaan-4:
- Lunar sample extraction and return to Earth.
- Venus Orbiter Mission:
- Studies the surface, subsurface, atmosphere, and Sun-Venus interactions of Venus.
Private Sector in Space:
Liberalized Space Sector:
- Private entities can undertake end-to-end space activities.
IN-SPACe:
- Aims to promote and oversee activities of NGEs in space.
- Initiatives such as Seed Fund Scheme, Pricing Support Policy, mentorship, skill development, and ISRO facility utilization.
Revised FDI Policy:
- Facilitates foreign investments in Indian space startups.
Venture Capital Fund:
- A dedicated ₹1,000 crore fund approved to support India’s space sector.
Government Efforts:
- Space Policy 2023 has brought in clear regulatory guidelines for the functioning of private sector activity.
- Partnering with Indian industries in realizing the satellite system.
Conclusion:
The NISAR mission thus portrays international co-sponsorship along with homegrown technology that progresses towards space exploration. India, in establishing its private contribution,
