Under India’s space diplomacy, the Ministry of External Affairs and ISRO’s commercial arm NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) signed an agreement to grant assistance for launching the Nepal-built Munal satellite.
About Munal Satellite:
- The Munal Satellite, developed indigenously by Nepal, is designed with a focus on building a vegetation density database of the Earth’s surface.
- This satellite will utilize the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle provided by NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) to achieve its mission.
What is Space Diplomacy?
- Space diplomacy involves leveraging space technology and initiatives as tools of foreign policy to extend influence, foster international partnerships, and promote regional cooperation.
- This strategic domain includes cooperation on satellite communications, space exploration, and policy coordination.
Important International Bodies for Space Diplomacy
- United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA),
- International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and
- regional bodies like the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization (APSCO).
Significance of Space Diplomacy for India:
- Enhances India’s regional influence and counters strategic competitors, particularly China.
- Projects soft power and provides critical support in telecommunications and disaster management through initiatives like the South Asia Satellite.
- Supports global south cooperation by building resources and consensus on common space technology goals.
- National security is bolstered through agreements like the India-US space situational awareness agreement, which offers access to U.S. radar and sensor networks to protect Indian space assets.
Challenges of Space Diplomacy
- Includes technological dependencies and coordination challenges among international partners.
- Geopolitical tensions, especially with neighbours like Pakistan who show reluctance towards cooperative initiatives.
- Additional challenges involve the lack of private sector participation and few missions aimed at deep space exploration.
India’s International Cooperation in Space
- Excludes Pakistan from the South Asia Satellite project, which aims to enhance communication, meteorology, and disaster response in SAARC countries.
- ISRO plays a pivotal role in extending India’s space capabilities through partnerships and training initiatives like UNispace Nanosatellite Assembly & Training by ISRO (UNNATI), which educates foreign engineers and scientists in space sciences.
- Emphasizes using outer space for peaceful purposes and maintaining it as a conflict-free zone.
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Frequently Asked Question:
What is meant by space diplomacy?
Space diplomacy involves using space activities and technologies to further diplomatic relationships and national interests, fostering international cooperation and establishing global rules and norms for space usage to prevent conflicts and promote peace.
What is the national space policy in India?
India’s national space policy emphasizes enhancing its space capabilities, supporting international cooperation, and promoting the peaceful use of outer space.
What is the full form of in space?
The full form of IN-SPACe is Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center.