India Takes Major Step Towards Building Its Own Space Station

ISRO Invites Industry to Develop Bharatiya Antariksh Station

BENGALURU: India has officially commenced its journey towards establishing a home-grown space station. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is inviting local industries to participate in the development of the first module for the proposed Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS).

Details of the Expression of Interest

The Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, under the Department of Space, has issued an Expression of Interest (EoI) seeking qualified Indian aerospace manufacturers. This initiative aims to produce two sets of the BAS-01 structure, which is the first module planned for India’s forthcoming space station in low Earth orbit. has accessed the EoI, which was issued on January 8.

Eligibility Criteria for Bidders

Bidders must meet specific qualifications as outlined by ISRO:

• Experience: At least five years in aerospace manufacturing.
• Financial Turnover: A minimum annual average turnover of ₹50 crore over the last three financial years.
• Certifications: Relevant quality certifications are essential.
• Reputation: No record of blacklisting.

The Vision for the BAS

ISRO has described the Bharatiya Antariksh Station as the next significant milestone in India’s human spaceflight program. The project aims to establish a sustained human presence in space, especially following the Gaganyaan missions. The BAS-01 module is envisaged to be the first operational element of the station.

Timeline for Deployment

The BAS-01 is expected to be deployed by 2028, serving as the first step towards developing five modules by 2035 to fully realize the space station.

Initial Structural Plans

According to initial plans accessed by in 2019, the BAS will be a 20-tonne modular abode designed to accommodate three astronauts. However, ISRO has yet to finalize the station’s design.

Funding and Resource Allocation

Union Minister Jitendra Singh has confirmed an allocation of ₹720 crore for the development of the first module. Procurement activities for long lead items have already commenced.

Advancements in Space Technology

Through this mission, ISRO aims to target several advanced technologies, including:

• Autonomous rendezvous and docking
• Robotics
• In-orbit refueling
• Dedicated crew quarters
• Intra-vehicular activity suits (for use within the spacecraft)
• Modular racks for conducting microgravity experiments

Role of Industry Partners

According to the EoI document, the selected industry partner will be responsible for the complete development and realization of the BAS-01 structure. This includes fabrication, welding, assembly, inspection, and proof pressure testing.

As India embarks on this ambitious project, the contribution of Indian industries will be crucial for the success of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station.