ISRO Plans Major Expansion Push

ISRO chairman V Narayanan said on 16 November that the agency is preparing for one of its busiest years, with plans to triple its spacecraft production capacity and launch Chandrayaan 4 in 2028. He said India’s first human spaceflight mission remains scheduled for 2027.

Speaking in an interview, Narayanan said ISRO is entering a phase of rapid growth in science, technology and industry participation. He explained that the organisation is focusing on strengthening domestic capabilities and expanding commercial opportunities alongside its scientific missions. Narayanan stated that ISRO is targeting seven more launches within the current financial year. These missions will include a commercial communication satellite and several PSLV and GSLV flights. One of the major highlights will be the launch of the first PSLV fully built by Indian industry, which he described as a significant step towards greater private sector involvement in the space ecosystem.

He said, “We are preparing for a phase of rapid scaling in science, technology and industry capacity,” emphasising that the current pace marks a turning point for India’s space ambitions. The chairman confirmed that the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission remains on track for 2027. The schedule includes multiple test flights, with the focus on safety, crew systems and launch reliability. Narayanan also confirmed that Chandrayaan 4, India’s next lunar mission, is set for launch in 2028. The mission will build on the achievements of Chandrayaan 3 and will involve more advanced lunar exploration objectives.

ISRO’s increased production plan aims to meet rising demand for satellites, both for national projects and commercial ventures. The organisation is working with industry partners to produce spacecraft at a much faster rate than before. With the combination of scientific missions, commercial launches and preparations for human spaceflight, officials say ISRO is entering a crucial phase that could significantly expand India’s role in the global space sector.