How Will ISRO-JAXA Space Missions Enhance Collaboration Between Industries and Startups?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- ISRO and JAXA are collaborating on space missions.
- The joint efforts aim to explore the lunar south pole.
- Chandrayaan-5 is set for a 2027-28 launch.
- Innovation is being fostered between industries and startups.
- Space exploration is linked to advancements in daily life.
Tokyo, Aug 29 (NationPress) The collaboration between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) in their joint space missions is set to enhance cooperation among industries and startups in both nations, according to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit on Friday.
In an interview with the Japanese publication The Yomiuri Shimbun, the Prime Minister emphasized that these missions will aid in uncovering the mysteries of the shadowed areas of the lunar south pole.
“Our collaborative efforts between the governments in the space sector, particularly through ISRO and JAXA, are nurturing a culture of cooperation that allows our industries and startups to thrive together. This is fostering an ecosystem where innovation seamlessly transitions from laboratories to launch pads and from research into practical applications,” stated PM Modi.
“I am delighted that India and Japan are working together on the next installment of the Chandrayaan series, also known as the LUPEX (Lunar Polar Exploration) mission. This initiative will significantly enhance our understanding of the permanently shadowed regions at the lunar south pole,” he added.
The upcoming Chandrayaan-5, marking the fifth mission in the Chandrayaan series, is referred to as LUPEX. This ISRO mission, in partnership with JAXA, is expected to launch aboard Japan's H3 rocket in 2027-28.
The joint mission will include a rover from JAXA and a lander from ISRO, designed to explore the Moon's south polar region to locate and analyze water ice.
“I have full confidence that our scientific teams will collaborate effectively to push the limits of space science. Our partnership in space will not only broaden our horizons above but also enhance the quality of life on Earth,” PM Modi remarked to the publication.
He also praised India’s journey in space as “a narrative of determination, hard work, and the innovation exhibited by our scientists.”
Furthermore, he remarked that space represents “the next frontier” for India.
“From the historic landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the moon’s south pole to our advancements in interplanetary missions, India has consistently shown that space is not merely a final frontier; it is indeed the next frontier,” PM Modi stated.
The Prime Minister highlighted the connection between space science and progress in everyday life, spanning areas from agriculture to disaster management and communications.
PM Modi is currently on a two-day visit to Japan from August 29-30, at the invitation of Japanese Prime Minister HE Shigeru Ishiba. This marks the Prime Minister's eighth visit to Japan, with his last trip occurring in May 2023.