India’s human spaceflight programme is set to evolve, with efforts underway to widen participation beyond traditional astronaut roles.
ISRO is exploring the inclusion of pilots, researchers, and students in future missions aboard the proposed Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS), which is targeted to become operational by 2035. The move aims to broaden access to space-based research and experimentation.
The initiative is being driven by the Human Space Flight Centre, which is developing a roadmap to expand the astronaut pool. While timelines are yet to be finalised, the focus is on enabling more diverse participation in space missions.
At present, India’s human spaceflight programme includes 4 astronaut-designates, known as ‘Gaganyaatris’. These are Shubhanshu Shukla, Prashanth Nair, Angad Pratap Singh, and Ajit Krishnan. From this group, 3 astronauts will be selected for the Gaganyaan mission, which will involve a 3-day journey in a 400 km orbit followed by a splashdown in Indian waters.
The proposed inclusion of students marks a notable shift in India’s space strategy, offering hands-on exposure and direct involvement in missions. This aligns with broader efforts to expand participation in space research across academic and scientific communities.
The Bharatiya Antariksh Station is expected to support long-term experiments in microgravity and advanced research. It will serve as a platform not only for astronauts but also for scientists and potentially students, enabling collaborative work in orbit.
The move reflects a wider global trend of making space missions more inclusive, opening opportunities for emerging talent alongside trained professionals.
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