Key Takeaways
- NASA has invited India to join its Moon Base program, reflecting strengthened space ties under the Artemis Accords.
- ISRO is set to launch the GSLV-F17 mission, marking its first launch of 2026 after earlier setbacks.
- A recent study indicates that India has the highest launch costs per kilogram compared to other major spacefaring nations.
India Joins the Global Space Initiative
NASA has formally invited the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to participate in its ambitious Moon Base program during the ninth India-U.S. Civil Space Joint Working Group meeting in Bengaluru. This initiative aims to establish a lunar outpost at the moon’s south pole, where astronauts could live and conduct research in the coming decade. India joined the Artemis Accords in 2023, and this invitation signifies the growing collaboration in space exploration between the two nations.
While ISRO is yet to decide about joining the Moon Base project, the invitation aligns with its long-term plans, including the upcoming Chandrayaan-4 and crewed lunar missions. The collaboration is expected to enhance India’s exposure and experience in international space projects.
GSLV-F17 Mission Launch
ISRO has announced its second mission of the year, the GSLV-F17, on September 4, carrying the EOS-05 earth observation satellite. This launch is significant as it follows the failure of the PSLV-C62 mission in January, marking a critical comeback for ISRO. Additionally, ISRO conducted a successful ground test of an improved solid booster stage, which aims to increase payload capability to low Earth orbit.
Advancements in Private Space Sector
India’s private space industry is gaining momentum, exemplified by the unveiling of the country’s first privately constructed 800 kN full-flow staged combustion (FFSC) rocket engine, named ‘Everest’ by Astrobase Space Technologies. This achievement places India among a select group of nations with FFSC technology, aiming for cleaner rocket launches.
In a move to expand private sector involvement, the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) issued an expression of interest to manage the Small-Satellite Launch Complex in Tamil Nadu. This initiative supports the government’s goal to grow the Indian space economy to $44 billion by 2033, although it has faced criticism from political entities.
Rising Launch Costs and Market Dynamics
A recent study published in Economics Letters indicates that India has the highest launch costs per kilogram, estimated at $13,302 as of 2025. This figure surpasses costs in Europe, Russia, China, Japan, and the U.S., raising concerns about India’s competitiveness as an economical launch provider. Despite undertaking 105 launches since 1979, ISRO’s infrequency appears to be a major contributor to these elevated costs. The upcoming GSLV-F17 mission will only be its second launch of 2026.
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