India has set an ambitious target to establish a lunar space station by 2040. This project represents the third phase of India’s long-term lunar mission roadmap, marking a major step forward for ISRO following its recent successes.
This roadmap, announced by ISRO at a recent symposium, builds on the momentum from Chandrayaan-3 mission, which landed on the Moon last year, propelling India into an elite group of only four countries to do so.
India’s lunar exploration plan is divided into three main phases, India Today reported. Phase one, now underway, focuses on developing essential technology for lunar exploration and robotic missions, with a notable goal being the Chandrayaan-4 mission, which aims to return samples from the Moon.
The second phase, targeting 2040, is aimed at achieving India’s first crewed Moon landing, a mission given special priority by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Following this milestone, the third phase seeks to establish a fully operational lunar space station. This future station is expected to be a hub for scientific research, resource exploration, and as a base for more distant space missions.
ALSO SEE: Why Has ISRO Delayed Gaganyaan Astronaut Mission To 2026?
India’s lunar outpost could open doors to scientific studies on lunar geology, new technological developments, and essential preparations for extended human presence beyond Earth.
India is not alone in this quest. NASA, too, is developing the Lunar Gateway, a space station that will orbit the Moon. Expected to begin assembly with the Artemis IV mission around 2028, the Lunar Gateway will serve as a platform for astronauts to conduct lunar research and as a stepping stone for deep-space missions.
Additionally, India is planning its first low-Earth-orbit space station, the Bharatiya Antariksha Station, slated for launch by 2035. This Earth-orbiting station will provide valuable insights and serve as a testbed for the advanced technologies needed to operate on the lunar surface.
ALSO SEE: What Challenges Will ISRO Face During Chandrayaan-4 Mission? Chairman Somanath Reveals
(Image: ESA)