ISRO plans to launch its inaugural unmanned Gaganyaan mission by the end of this year

New Delhi : ISRO Chairman S. Somanath announced that significant efforts are being made to launch the first unmanned Gaganyaan mission by the end of this year.

During an interaction with the media at ISRO, he shared that all the necessary components of the rocket have been delivered to the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, where they will be assembled in preparation for the mission’s launch.

He highlighted the importance of this mission as a precursor to the manned Gaganyaan mission, explaining that sensors will be used to measure Gamma rays, UV radiation, and cosmic ultra radiation to ensure the safety of astronauts during future human spaceflights.

In addition to updates on the Gaganyaan mission, Chairman S. Somanath discussed the progress on the establishment of the new Space Centre at Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu, which is expected to be completed within two years. He noted that the location of the center is strategically important, especially for launching smaller satellites, taking into account the proximity of neighboring countries.

Somanath also emphasized India’s growing capabilities in satellite production, stating that the country is now able to manufacture a wide variety of satellites at significantly lower costs, following successful testing.

He mentioned that this technological expertise not only strengthens India’s position in the global space industry but also opens up opportunities for technology transfer to the private sector, which could further benefit the country’s economy and enhance its influence in the international space arena.