India’s space agency has invited universities and research institutions to play a larger role in its next phase of missions through a new national research roadmap.
ISRO on Tuesday released the “RESPOND Basket 2025”, outlining priority research problems and calling for project proposals from academic institutions by January 31, 2026. The document maps mission linked research and development needs across launch vehicles, satellites, human spaceflight, planetary science, propulsion, materials, artificial intelligence and quantum technologies.
This is the 6th edition of the RESPOND Basket and places a stronger emphasis on prototype development and improving technology readiness levels. ISRO said deeper engagement with academia will be essential for future programmes, including Gaganyaan continuation missions, Chandrayaan 4, the Bharatiya Antariksh Station and upcoming planetary exploration efforts.
Issued by ISRO’s Capacity Building and Public Outreach office, RESPOND Basket 2025 highlights urgent and mission critical research requirements spanning launch systems, satellites, human spaceflight, planetary science, remote sensing, avionics, propulsion, materials, artificial intelligence and quantum technologies.
ISRO noted that academic institutions have played a sustained role in supporting India’s space programme since the sponsored research initiative began in the early 1970s. Since the first RESPOND Basket was introduced in 2018, a total of 871 research problems have been shared with universities and research bodies, with several outcomes contributing to operational and experimental missions.
The latest edition comes as ISRO prepares for an expanded roadmap that includes the Bharatiya Antariksh Station, future lunar and human space missions and a Venus orbiter.
RESPOND Basket 2025 includes research topics proposed by more than a dozen ISRO and Department of Space centres. These include Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, UR Rao Satellite Centre, Space Applications Centre, Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre, Physical Research Laboratory and the Human Space Flight Centre.
Each research topic outlines a clear scope, expected deliverables and direct links to specific space missions. ISRO stated, “Eligible applicants include faculty members and scientists from recognised academic and autonomous research institutions. Proposals will be evaluated by ISRO experts based on novelty, technical approach, feasibility, experience of the principal investigator, project duration and budget.”
The agency added that the programme aims not only to address immediate technological challenges but also to build a skilled talent base capable of supporting a rapidly expanding space ecosystem.
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