India's Space Programme: ISRO, Satellites, Launch Vehicles and Exploration

India's space programme has developed capabilities in satellites, launch vehicles, Earth observation, communication, navigation and planetary exploration. These capabilities serve both practical and scientific goals.

Why space technology matters

Space systems support communication, weather forecasting, navigation, agriculture, disaster management, mapping and scientific research. India's programme has historically placed strong emphasis on applications that support national development.

The role of ISRO

The Indian Space Research Organisation is the country's principal space agency. It has developed satellites, launch vehicles, ground infrastructure and scientific missions while contributing to a broader national space ecosystem.

Satellites in everyday life

Satellite technology supports television and communications, weather monitoring, remote sensing, navigation and resource mapping. Many of its benefits are therefore embedded in services people use without thinking about their space-based infrastructure.

Launch vehicles

India has developed launch vehicles for different classes of missions and orbits. Reliable launch capability is important for national missions, scientific exploration and the development of a wider space economy.

The next phase

Lunar and planetary missions demonstrate advanced engineering and scientific capability. Increasing participation from private companies, research institutions and startups can broaden innovation, manufacturing and commercial opportunities.