The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has revealed plans for no less than seven space launch missions by March 2026. This is a very important phase for India’s space agency. Some of these plans include the Gaganyaan unmanned mission of its human space flight mission series. This is in addition to other satellite technological advancements as well as space services. This eventful launch schedule of ISRO portrays its dual efforts of conducting strategic national missions and contributing to the global space economy through India.
What Is the Announcement About Launches?
- ISRO has lined up seven launches within a short time frame, with the first mission expected as early as next week.
- These launches will be carried out using different launch vehicles, including LVM3, PSLV, GSLV Mk II, and SSLV.
- The missions will support communication, earth observation, navigation, technology demonstration, and human spaceflight objectives.
1. Gaganyaan Uncrewed Mission
First uncrewed mission of India’s human spaceflight program, carrying the robot Vyommitra onboard.
Objectives:
- Test aerodynamics and human-rated launch vehicle performance
- Demonstrate orbital module operations
- Validate re-entry and recovery systems of the crew module
- A second uncrewed mission is planned before the first Indian astronaut flight in 2027.
2. Electric Propulsion and Quantum Key Distribution
PSLV-C63 mission will carry TDS-01 to demonstrate,
- High Thrust Electric Propulsion System: reduces satellite fuel from 2+ tonnes to ~200 kg while maintaining power, enabling lighter and more efficient satellites.
- Quantum Key Distribution (QKD): advances secure communication.
- Indigenous Travelling Wave Tube (TWT) Amplifier: enables self-reliance in critical satellite transponder technologies.
3. Communication and Earth Observation Satellites
- LVM3-M5 to launch Bluebird-6 for US-based AST Spacemobile via NSIL commercial contract.
- GSLV-Mk II to launch EOS-5/GISAT-1A, a replacement for GISAT-1 (failed in 2021).
- PSLV missions to launch Oceansat, Indo-Mauritius joint satellite, LEAP-2 satellite of Dhruva Space, and EOS-N1 for strategic use along with 18 smaller satellites.
- SSLV mission will launch a dedicated small satellite before March 2026.
4. Commercialisation and Industry Participation
- NSIL-HAL-L&T consortium to manufacture five PSLV rockets, enhancing India’s commercial launch capabilities.
- Focus on technology transfer and private-sector engagement for cost-effective and frequent satellite launches.
Key Takeaways
- ISRO has planned seven launches by March 2026.
- The schedule includes the first uncrewed Gaganyaan mission with Vyommitra onboard.
- LVM3 will launch both Gaganyaan and the BlueBird-6 commercial satellite.
- India’s first industry-built PSLV will be launched in 2026.
- TDS-01 will test electric propulsion and quantum key distribution technologies.
- NSIL is promoting commercial launches through private-sector participation.