12 Apr. 2019 Early 2019 promises to be remarkable for India's space research organization (ISRO). The administration of India's space program has achieved two technical feats that showcase expertise worthy of the world's leading space agencies.

ISRO successfully launched the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) on April 1st. This spacecraft carried approximately thirty satellites—24 American, four European, and one Indian. In an unprecedented achievement, the PSLV managed to stabilize these satellites across three different Earth orbits. Furthermore, the final stage of the vehicle transformed into an orbital research station, a first of its kind.

India affirms its status

On March 29th, India successfully destroyed one of its satellites in orbit at an altitude exceeding 300 kilometers. "A feat that places India within the exclusive circle of powers possessing such capability, until now comprised solely of the United States, Russia, and China," writes Olivier Guillard, researcher at the French Institute of International and Strategic Relations (IRIS), in an article on the subject. Unlike China, which in 2007 targeted a satellite at 800 kilometers altitude—significantly reducing the chances of cleaning up space debris—the subcontinent, by aiming at only 300 kilometers, ensured that debris would be cleared within just weeks or months. "A more transparent, more responsible operational approach, commended by two other members of this exclusive space power club: Russia and the United States," the scientist emphasizes.

He goes on to enumerate India's achievements, which suggest to him that this nation holds the strongest potential for space exploration. It holds the record for the most satellites launched into space in a single mission (104). India also successfully deployed the Mars Orbiter Mission into orbit around the Red Planet in 2014, achieving success on the first attempt.

Thibault Bourru

Thibault Bourru—A passionate enthusiast of literature and Asia, Thibault shares his experiences through his writing.