Prime Minister Narendra Modi revealed India’s ambition to establish its own space station during his Independence Day address. He mentioned Operation Sindoor and highlighted the return of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla from the International Space Station (ISS) as major milestones. PM Modi stated that India is making significant strides in the space domain, fostering self-reliance in space exploration.
India is actively pursuing the development of its space station and the Gaganyaan mission. The Prime Minister noted that over 300 startups are now operating within the space sector. The announcement signals India’s commitment to achieving ‘Atmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) in the space arena.
**Understanding Space Stations**
A space station serves as a permanent orbiting base, acting as a home and laboratory for astronauts to conduct experiments and research.
**Nations with Space Station Capabilities**
India will soon join the ranks of countries with independent space station capabilities, including:
* **China:** Operating the Tiangong space station.
* **Russia:** Developing the Russian Orbital Service Station.
* **International Space Station:** A joint project of Russia (Roscosmos), the US (NASA), Japan (JAXA), Europe (ESA), and Canada (CSA).