The Union Cabinet recently gave approval of the first module of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS-1) as part of an expanded Gaganyaan program.
About Bharatiya Antariksh Station:
- This initiative is a pivotal move towards establishing India’s own space station by 2035 and preparing for a crewed lunar mission by 2040.
- It will involve a series of missions aimed at testing and validating the technologies necessary for the construction and operation of the BAS.
- The Gaganyaan program’s budget increased to Rs 20,193 crore, with an additional Rs 11,170 crore allocated for this expansion.
- The expanded Gaganyaan program will now include eight missions aimed for completion by 2028, the first four focusing on technology demonstration to be completed by 2026.
- The revisedGaganyaan program, which began in 2018, aims to send humans into low-Earth orbit (LEO) and lay the groundwork for future human space exploration.
- Beyond technical advancements, this program aims to inspire India’s youth to explore careers in science and technology, promoting a new generation of innovators.
Key Features of the BAS-1:
- The BAS will consist of five interconnected modules, measuring 27 meters by 20 meters, and will weigh approximately 52 tons, much heavier than the initially planned 25 tons.
- It will serve as a research facility where astronauts and scientists can conduct experiments in microgravity, astronomy, and Earth observation.
- The crew members would able to remain in orbit for 15 to 20 days, as the station will typically host a crew of 3 to 4 astronauts but can accommodate up to 6 for short periods.
- Bas will operate in a circular orbit at an altitude of 400-450 km at an inclination of 51.5 degree for extensive Earth observation and research opportunities.
- The Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) Soorya, an advanced rocket system was also approved for utilization in this mission.
- It promises reusability to dramatically reduce the cost of space access, incorporate modular green propulsion systems, aligning with sustainable space exploration goals.
Ref: Source
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Frequently Asked Question:
What is the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS)?
The BAS is India’s planned space station, aimed at establishing a platform for scientific research and technology development in space.
What are the goals of the BAS initiative?
The primary goals include establishing India’s own space station by 2035, preparing for a crewed lunar mission by 2040, and facilitating scientific research in areas like microgravity, astronomy, and Earth observation.
How is the BAS connected to the Gaganyaan program?
The BAS is part of the expanded Gaganyaan program, which includes missions to test and validate technologies necessary for the construction and operation of the space station.