CHENNAI: Rather than the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) being just the integrator of the entire space ecosystem, the space sector needs to be advanced by entrepreneurs and space companies, said Rajeev Jyoti, scientist and director (technical), Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN -SPACe), during the inauguration ceremony of a space technology conclave at IIT Madras on Saturday.
Jyoti said the global space sector will shift from geosatellites to a constellation of small satellites over the next 10 years, and space entrepreneurs and space companies will play a crucial role.
“While technology and innovation are the most important things for any business, geographic or not, we also need innovation and funding, among other things. The model that ISRO is just the integrator of the entire space ecosystem needs to change,” Jyoti said. He added that it is estimated that 10,000 satellites will be launched in the near future and the global space sector has started talking about space exploration, including space tourism.
He also focused on the domestic production of components needed for the space sector. “Almost 40% of the components are procured abroad. We must maintain the space systems supply chain with the partnership of all parties involved. Science also needs to network with industry,” added Jyoti.
Lead Guest Mylswamy Annadurai, Researcher and Vice-President of the State Council for Science and Technology of Tamil Nadu, said, “There is an urgent need among like-minded countries for a holistic space policy that promotes international cooperation.” One outcome of the conclave will be the “Association of Space Entrepreneurs in the Indo-Pacific (ASEIP).
