How Is ISRO Transforming India's Space Journey?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
ISRO is on the verge of launching a 6,500-kg satellite, showcasing India's remarkable evolution in space technology. From humble beginnings with a tiny rocket received from the US, ISRO's journey reflects significant progress in satellite technology and international collaboration.
Key Takeaways
- India is set to launch a 6,500-kg satellite, marking a significant milestone in its space journey.
- ISRO's journey began in 1963 with a tiny rocket provided by the US.
- India has transitioned from no satellite technology to launching 433 satellites for 34 countries.
- The upcoming launch signifies India's ability to deploy large satellites using indigenous technology.
- ISRO's achievements reflect technological progress and international collaboration.
Chennai, Aug 10 (NationPress) ISRO Chairman and Department of Space Secretary V. Narayanan revealed on Sunday that India is set to launch a 6,500-kg communication satellite built by the US within the next few months, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s space odyssey.
During the 21st convocation ceremony of SRM Institute of Science and Technology in Kattankulathur near Chennai, Narayanan reminisced about the modest origins of India’s space program, which began in 1963 with a small rocket gifted by the US.
"On November 21, 1963, we received a diminutive rocket from the US, heralding the start of our journey. Back then, we lagged five to six years behind the advanced countries," he shared.
Honored with an honorary Doctor of Science degree by Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan at the event, Narayanan highlighted pivotal advancements in ISRO’s evolution.
In 1975, leveraging satellite data from the US, India pioneered mass communication by installing 2,400 television sets across 2,400 villages in six states.
"From such humble beginnings, a landmark date arrived on July 30, 2025, marking a historic moment for the Indian space program," Narayanan added, referring to the successful launch of the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) mission aboard the GSLV-F16.
This mission, he emphasized, carried the world’s most expensive satellite, featuring an L-band SAR payload from the US and an S-band payload from ISRO.
"The satellite was successfully positioned in orbit with remarkable precision, garnering acclaim from NASA for our launcher's accuracy," he stated.
Narayanan expressed that the forthcoming mission to deploy the 6,500-kg American-built satellite from Indian territory using an indigenous launcher signifies a historic moment.
"A nation that once received a minuscule rocket from the US is now poised to launch one of its largest communication satellites. This illustrates our extraordinary growth," he remarked.
Emphasizing ISRO's accomplishments, Narayanan noted that in the past 50 years, India has transitioned from having no satellite technology to successfully launching 433 satellites for 34 countries using its own launch vehicles.
"Our journey symbolizes not just technological advancements but also the unwavering determination and vision to stand shoulder to shoulder with the world's leading spacefaring nations," he concluded.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize ISRO's remarkable trajectory towards becoming a leader in space technology. This achievement not only showcases India's technological prowess but also its determination to compete globally in the space sector. The upcoming satellite launch is a testament to our nation's commitment to advancing in this critical field.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the 6,500-kg satellite launch?
The launch of the 6,500-kg satellite signifies India's technological advancement and its ability to launch large satellites from its own soil, marking a milestone in its space journey.
When did India's space program begin?
India's space program began in 1963 with the launch of a tiny rocket received from the US.
How many satellites has India launched?
India has successfully launched 433 satellites for 34 countries using its own launch vehicles.
What was the historic launch on July 30, 2025?
The historic launch on July 30, 2025, was the successful deployment of the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) mission.
What does ISRO's journey represent?
ISRO's journey represents significant technological progress and the determination to stand alongside advanced spacefaring nations.
