The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has unveiled the model of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS), marking a major milestone for India’s space program. This launchpad towards India’s first home-built space station was revealed during the National Space Day celebrations in New Delhi.
The Bharatiya Antariksh Station will consist of five modules connected together, with the first module, BAS-01, scheduled for a 2028 launch. BAS-01 will weigh around 10 tonnes and orbit Earth approximately 450 kilometers above the surface. Its dimensions are about 3.8 meters in diameter and 8 meters in length.
Designed for a crew of 3-4 astronauts and a short-term capacity of 6, BAS will orbit at an inclination of 51.6°, allowing launches from multiple spaceports. The station will host pioneering indigenous technologies, including advanced life support systems, an automated docking mechanism, and space suits for extra-vehicular activities.
ISRO envisions BAS as a platform for groundbreaking scientific research, including microgravity experiments, Earth observation, life sciences, medicine, and interplanetary exploration. The station will also accommodate space tourism in the future, diversifying India’s space capabilities.
With plans to have the space station operational by 2035, ISRO aims to strengthen India’s position in the global space community, following missions like Chandrayaan and the Venus orbiter. The Bharatiya Antariksh Station represents India’s growing expertise and ambitions in space technology and exploration.
This historic development underscores India’s commitment to expanding its presence in low Earth orbit and advancing space research and innovation.
