The 9th edition of the Bengaluru Space Expo (BSX) 2026 is set to bring together space agencies, private companies, technology firms, researchers, policymakers and industry stakeholders at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC) from September 7 to 9. The three-day international conference and exhibition is being organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in partnership with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), IN-SPACe and NewSpace India Limited (NSIL).

BSX 2026 dates and venue

The event will be held at BIEC on Tumkur Road, near the 10th Mile Madavara, Bengaluru, with the conference and exhibition scheduled across three days. The venue's official events calendar also lists Bengaluru Space Expo from September 7 to 9, 2026.

This year's edition carries the theme “Harnessing Space for Global Progress: Innovation, Policy, and Growth.” The organisers say the event is designed to provide a platform for showcasing developments in space technology while encouraging partnerships between Indian and international space-sector participants.

Focus on India's growing space economy

BSX 2026 comes at a time when India's space ecosystem is expanding beyond traditional government-led programmes. According to the organisers, India currently has more than 300 space-tech startups, while the country's space sector is valued at around $8.4 billion. The sector is projected to reach $44 billion by 2033, reflecting the growing emphasis on commercial space activity and private-sector participation.

The expo will therefore focus not only on rockets and satellites but also on the wider commercial and technological ecosystem supporting India's space ambitions.

Private companies and international partnerships

One of the major objectives of BSX 2026 is to strengthen cooperation between Indian space companies and international participants. The organisers say the exhibition will allow companies and space agencies to showcase their capabilities, explore joint ventures and identify potential partnership opportunities.

The event will also include B2B meetings and country-focused sessions, creating opportunities for industry representatives to discuss investment, technology development and collaboration.

Key areas under discussion

The programme covers a broad range of space-sector themes, including earth observation, remote sensing and geospatial intelligence, emerging space technologies, human spaceflight, space exploration, launch vehicles, satellite systems and satellite communication.

Other areas include space policy and regulation, commercial space financing, innovation and research, as well as space sustainability, safety and debris mitigation.

Three-day conference programme

The conference programme begins on September 7 with the inaugural session and exhibition opening. A keynote by the Scientific Secretary of ISRO is scheduled on India's space economy and the role of research and development, followed by sessions on private-sector participation, next-generation satellites and integration of the space ecosystem.

The September 8 programme includes discussions on earth observation, human spaceflight and deep-space exploration, sustainable access to space and industry-enabling policy reforms. Sessions will also examine the role of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in space research and commercial growth.

What BSX 2026 aims to achieve

The organisers expect the expo to serve as a meeting point for the government, private industry, startups, academia and international stakeholders. The official BSX website lists 250 exhibitors, around 1,000 conference delegates and 12,000 business visitors, along with participation from multiple countries.

With India's space sector increasingly opening to private players, BSX 2026 is expected to place particular attention on how technology, policy, investment and international cooperation can support the next phase of India's commercial space growth.

SpaceX is planning a massive new rocket launch complex in southern Louisiana that could become one of the largest spaceport developments in the world. The project, associated with Elon Musk’s company, is planned for Pecan Islandand is expected to support high-frequency launches of the next-generation Starship system and other spacecraft.

According to the information provided, SpaceX plans to invest around $100 billion in the development. The proposed site would cover approximately 125,000 acres, making it several times larger than Manhattan. Construction is expected to begin in 2029, subject to the required approvals and development processes.

125,000-Acre Spaceport Planned

The proposed facility, referred to as Starbase, Louisiana, would become SpaceX’s second major Starbase campus after its existing operations in Texas.

The Louisiana site is being designed primarily as a high-volume launch facility rather than a rocket manufacturing centre. Starship vehicles would be manufactured and assembled elsewhere before being transported to Louisiana for launch operations.

The location is also considered suitable for missions targeting sun-synchronous orbit, an orbital path widely used by Earth-observation and other satellites.

Thousands of Launches Could Be Supported

SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell has said the planned campus is intended to support thousands of Starship launches each year. The ambitious target would depend on the technical development of Starship, launch infrastructure and regulatory approvals.

The facility is expected to include infrastructure for handling rockets, transportation and launch operations. Plans reportedly include deep-water shipping facilities and vehicle-processing infrastructure, while a dedicated airport could also be developed.

The high launch capacity would be particularly significant if SpaceX expands its satellite deployment activities substantially in the coming years.

SpaceX Plans Its Own Fuel and Power

The Louisiana campus is being designed with a high degree of self-sufficiency in mind.

According to the plans outlined for the project, the facility could produce methane, which is used as rocket fuel for Starship, within the complex. A dedicated power-generation facility is also proposed to supply electricity.

This approach could reduce dependence on outside infrastructure as launch activity increases.

3,000 Jobs Expected

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has described the proposed project as a major economic opportunity for the state. The development is expected to create at least 3,000 direct jobs in the region.

The projected average annual salary has been put at about $92,600. Local officials expect the project to generate wider economic activity through construction, transportation, infrastructure and supporting businesses.

Landry has also linked the development to economic growth and coastal-area investment in the region.

Different From Texas Starbase

The Louisiana facility would have a different role from SpaceX’s existing Starbase in Texas.

While the Texas site is involved in the development, manufacturing and testing of Starship vehicles, the Louisiana complex is being planned primarily around launch operations and rapid turnaround.

Starship consists of the upper-stage Starship spacecraft and the Super Heavy booster. SpaceX is developing the fully reusable system for a range of missions, including satellite deployment and future human-spaceflight applications.

Starlink and AI Satellites

A major objective behind expanding launch capacity is the ability to put large numbers of satellites into orbit.

The planned Louisiana spaceport could support the rapid expansion of SpaceX’s Starlink satellite network. The material also cites a longer-term objective of deploying up to 1 million AI-related satellites, although such a target would require substantial technological, regulatory and infrastructure development.

The scale of the proposed launch facility reflects SpaceX’s broader strategy of increasing launch frequency rather than relying on a small number of large missions.

What Is Sun-Synchronous Orbit?

A sun-synchronous orbit is a type of Earth orbit in which a satellite passes over a given region at approximately the same local solar time on successive passes.

Maintaining relatively consistent lighting conditions makes this orbit particularly useful for Earth-observation satellites. It can also be advantageous for satellites that depend heavily on solar power.

If SpaceX succeeds in developing the Louisiana facility at the proposed scale, it could significantly increase the company's capacity to conduct frequent Starship launches. However, the project's final size, timeline and launch frequency will depend on engineering progress, environmental considerations and regulatory approvals.

India is strengthening its space-based surveillance capabilities to detect missile launches and other aerial threats much earlier, reducing the time available for an adversary to strike. The push has gained importance following the lessons of Operation Sindoor, when air-defence systems had only a limited window to track and intercept incoming threats.

The idea is to use satellites and space-based sensors as an early-warning layer. Infrared sensors can detect the intense heat signature produced by a missile's rocket plume shortly after launch. This information can then be passed to ground-based radars and air-defence command networks, giving them more time to establish the missile's trajectory and prepare an interception. 

India's broader Space-Based Surveillance (SBS) programme is designed to create a large satellite network for persistent monitoring of land and maritime areas. The programme is expected to strengthen surveillance of India's strategic neighbourhood and improve the ability of defence systems to detect and track hostile aircraft, drones and missiles. 

The importance of such a system lies in the geography of the India-Pakistan region. A ballistic missile launched from relatively close to India's border can cover the distance to its target within minutes. Ground radars can face limitations caused by the Earth's curvature and line-of-sight constraints, whereas satellites observing from above can potentially detect a missile during its boost phase, much earlier in its flight.

The new architecture is not simply about spotting a launch. The objective is to create an integrated chain linking satellites, sensors, radars, command-and-control systems and interceptors. Earlier detection can allow defence planners to calculate the likely trajectory and determine the appropriate response before the missile reaches its terminal phase.

India's private space sector is also becoming part of this emerging capability. Bengaluru-based Digantara recently unveiled MOSAIC, an AI-powered distributed optical sensor network intended to provide continuous monitoring of objects in low Earth orbit and strengthen India's space-domain awareness.

Separately, Indian companies are working on space-based thermal sensing technologies specifically aimed at detecting missile launches. Such capabilities could eventually provide another layer of warning for India's missile-defence architecture. 

The development comes as India seeks to shorten the time between detection and decision-making. In modern warfare, where ballistic and hypersonic weapons can travel at extremely high speeds, even a few additional minutes—or seconds—can significantly improve the chances of tracking and responding to a threat.

However, satellites alone cannot guarantee interception. A launch warning must be converted into an accurate track, verified by other sensors and transmitted quickly enough to an interceptor system. Coverage, satellite positioning, communication delays, false alarms and sophisticated missiles designed to manoeuvre or deploy decoys remain major challenges.

India is therefore moving towards a layered approach in which space-based surveillance complements terrestrial radars and existing air-defence systems. If successfully integrated, these "eyes in space" could give India's military an earlier view of an incoming threat and provide additional time to decide how—and where—to intercept it. 

 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday extended his greetings to the people of India on National Space Day, highlighting the country's growing achievements in space exploration and calling for greater innovation and ambition in the sector.

In his message, Modi said India's space journey reflects the country's ability to pursue ambitious goals while developing indigenous capabilities. He encouraged citizens, scientists, engineers, startups and young innovators to continue pushing the boundaries of what India can achieve in space technology.

The Prime Minister's message comes as India continues to expand its space programme, with government-backed missions as well as growing participation from private space startups. The space sector has increasingly emerged as an area of technological development, research and entrepreneurship, with Indian companies working on launch vehicles, satellites and other space-related technologies.

National Space Day is observed to commemorate the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the lunar surface on August 23, 2023. India became the first country to land a spacecraft near the Moon's south polar region during the historic mission.

The achievement marked a significant milestone for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and strengthened India's position in global space exploration. Chandrayaan-3's successful landing was followed by the deployment of the Pragyan rover, which carried out scientific experiments on the lunar surface.

Modi has frequently highlighted the role of India's young population and private sector in taking the country's space programme forward. The opening of the space sector to private participation has encouraged startups and companies to develop new technologies and explore commercial opportunities.

The Prime Minister's latest National Space Day message also comes at a time when India is preparing for several major space initiatives. The country's space programme is looking beyond individual missions towards greater technological capabilities, human spaceflight, satellite services and deeper participation by private players.

Earlier on Sunday, Modi also interacted with CEOs and founders of Indian space startups, where he praised their willingness to enter a relatively new sector. He said Indian companies had demonstrated courage by entering the space industry and highlighted India's cost competitiveness as a potential advantage in the global market.

The government's focus is increasingly shifting towards building a broader space ecosystem in which ISRO, startups, researchers and established companies can work together. This approach is expected to support innovation while creating new opportunities in satellite technology, launch services, communications and other space-related fields.

As India marks National Space Day, the focus is therefore not only on the achievements of past missions but also on the country's future ambitions in space. Modi's message emphasised the need to continue dreaming bigger and innovating more as India seeks to strengthen its position among the world's leading spacefaring nations.

 NASA astronaut Anil Menon and European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Sophie Adenot successfully removed a malfunctioning communications antenna from the International Space Station (ISS) during a 6-hour-and-23-minute spacewalk on Tuesday. However, technical difficulties during the operation meant the astronauts could not install the replacement antenna.

The spacewalk focused on the station's Z1 truss, where the astronauts were assigned to remove a failed Space-to-Ground Antenna (SGANT) and replace it with a new unit.

Menon Completes Second Spacewalk

The spacewalk, designated US Spacewalk 97, began at 8:29 am EDT after Menon and Adenot switched their spacesuits to battery power.

The excursion lasted 6 hours and 23 minutes. It was Menon's second spacewalk, taking his cumulative time working outside the ISS to 12 hours and 50 minutes.

The astronauts successfully completed the removal of the faulty antenna, but the task took longer than expected. They encountered difficulties while disconnecting electrical cables and loosening bolts on the antenna's gimbal assembly.

Replacement Installation Delayed

The additional time needed to remove the failed hardware left the astronauts without enough working time to install the replacement unit.

As their available working time ran short, mission controllers instructed Menon and Adenot to return to the airlock in accordance with standard safety procedures.

NASA said the ISS remains fully operational despite the incomplete task.

The station has two SGANT systems, allowing the remaining antenna to continue supporting high-data-rate communications between the ISS and ground stations.

Milestone for Sophie Adenot

The spacewalk marked a major milestone for Adenot, who became the first French woman to conduct a spacewalk.

She is also the fifth French citizen to perform an extravehicular activity, adding another milestone to her career as an ESA astronaut.

Menon, meanwhile, continued to build his experience in ISS maintenance and operations through the mission.

Follow-Up Spacewalk Planned

Mission planners are now assessing when the replacement antenna can be installed.

A follow-up spacewalk is tentatively scheduled for August 25, although NASA is still deciding whether the antenna installation will be included in that mission or postponed to a later date.

The successful removal of the failed antenna has completed the first major part of the maintenance task, while the replacement installation remains pending.

India’s private space sector has taken a major step towards developing advanced rocket propulsion systems, with Bengaluru-based Astrobase Space Technologies unveiling an 800 kN-class Full-Flow Staged Combustion (FFSC)engine.

Named Everest, the engine is being developed for Astrobase’s planned reusable medium-lift launch vehicle. The company is targeting its first orbital flight by December 2028, with commercial operations expected around the same period.

However, the engine is still at an early stage of development. Astrobase has not yet conducted hot-fire testing, meaning the propulsion system is yet to demonstrate its performance under actual firing conditions. The company expects to begin testing in the coming months.

800 kN Thrust Engine

According to Astrobase, Everest is designed to generate around 800 kN of thrust and uses liquid oxygen and methaneas propellants.

The company is targeting a specific impulse of around 340 seconds, while the engine is designed to operate across a throttle range of approximately 50 per cent to 110 per cent.

The ability to throttle the engine is particularly important for reusable launch vehicles because controlled changes in thrust are required during different stages of ascent and landing.

Astrobase CEO Neeraj Khandelwal said the company wants to develop a reusable launch vehicle system from India and eventually establish a high-frequency orbital launch capability.

Why FFSC Engines Matter

Full-Flow Staged Combustion is considered one of the most technically demanding rocket-engine cycles.

In an FFSC engine, both the fuel and oxidiser are converted into gases before entering the combustion chamber. This architecture can improve engine efficiency and the operating conditions of turbomachinery.

Because of the engineering challenges involved, FFSC propulsion has been pursued by only a limited number of countries and companies.

The technology has been associated with advanced propulsion programmes in the United States, Russia and China. Astrobase says it is among the few commercial companies attempting to develop an engine using this architecture.

Reusable Launch Vehicle

Everest is being developed as part of Astrobase’s larger reusable launch vehicle programme.

The company plans to use the engine to power a medium-lift orbital rocket designed for repeated launches. Its first orbital flight is currently targeted for December 2028.

The timeline, however, will depend on the results of engine testing and subsequent qualification.

Before an engine can be used for an orbital mission, it must undergo multiple stages of testing, including hot-fire trials, performance validation, repeated firings and integration with the launch vehicle.

Over 70% Indigenous

Astrobase says more than 70 per cent of Everest has been developed and manufactured in India.

The company said the engine has been designed in-house and is being manufactured in Bengaluru. Imports are currently limited to components that are not yet available domestically, including certain specialised sensors.

The company sees indigenous propulsion development as an important part of building a domestic private-sector launch ecosystem.

Ambitious Launch Targets

Astrobase is also targeting a substantial increase in annual launch capacity.

The company aims to initially develop the capability to place around 100 tonnes of payload into orbit each year, with a long-term target of scaling that figure to more than 1,000 tonnes annually.

Khandelwal said the company believes the global launch market remains constrained by limited launch capacity and that additional providers could help meet growing demand.

Astrobase has not disclosed the identity of its first customer.

Testing Will Decide Next Step

The unveiling of Everest marks the beginning rather than the completion of the propulsion programme.

The engine still needs to undergo hot-fire testing, qualification and eventual flight integration. The company will also have to demonstrate that the engine can meet its targeted performance consistently under demanding operating conditions.

For now, the key test for Astrobase will be whether Everest can successfully move from an unveiled prototype to a tested and flight-qualified propulsion system.

If the company meets its planned testing and development milestones, the engine could become an important component of India’s expanding private space-launch ecosystem.

SpaceX has successfully completed the 13th integrated test flight of Starship, taking another significant step toward developing the world's first fully reusable launch system. The mission, known as Starship Flight 13, successfully deployed 20 next-generation Starlink V3 test satellites, achieved a controlled splashdown of the Starship spacecraft, and demonstrated major improvements over previous test flights.

The launch took place from Starbase, Texas, after multiple delays caused by engine issues and poor weather. Engineers replaced faulty Raptor engines following a failed launch attempt last week, paving the way for Friday's successful mission.

The test is considered one of SpaceX's most important achievements yet as it moves closer to supporting NASA's Artemis Moon program and the company's long-term ambition of sending humans to Mars.

Successful Launch After Earlier Setbacks

Flight 13 faced several challenges before liftoff.

The first launch attempt on July 17 was automatically aborted at the final countdown after four Raptor engines failed to ignite properly. Engineers later inspected and replaced the affected engines before rolling the massive rocket back to the launch pad.

A second attempt was delayed due to unfavorable weather conditions, pushing the launch back by another 24 hours.

When the countdown resumed on Friday, all 33 Raptor engines on the Super Heavy booster ignited successfully, producing nearly 18 million pounds of thrust and sending the world's most powerful rocket into the sky.

According to SpaceX Senior Director of Starship Launches Justin Steyer, the booster generated thrust comparable to "the world's largest machine gun firing 11 pickup trucks every second instead of bullets."

20 Starlink V3 Satellites Successfully Deployed

The highlight of Flight 13 was the successful deployment of 20 Starlink Version 3 test satellites, marking the first time Starship has carried this new generation of internet satellites into space.

SpaceX confirmed it established communication with all 20 satellites shortly after deployment.

Unlike operational Starlink satellites, these were test payloads placed on a suborbital trajectory. They remained in space for only about 20 minutes before safely burning up in Earth's atmosphere as planned.

The mission demonstrated that Starship can now function as a practical satellite launcher rather than only a test vehicle.

Why These Satellites Matter

Although the satellites were intentionally destroyed after completing their mission, they played a crucial role in testing technologies that will power SpaceX's future satellite network.

Among the key experiments:

• Six satellites carried cameras to inspect Starship's heat shield from space and transmit detailed images back to Earth.
• The satellites deployed solar panels and communication antennas before testing laser links with the existing Starlink network.
• SpaceX also tested its new Pez dispenser-style deployment system, which ejects the flat satellites through a narrow opening in the spacecraft.

These experiments will help improve satellite deployment, communication systems, and spacecraft durability for future commercial missions.

Historic Water Landing for Starship

Another major achievement came during Starship's return to Earth.

After completing its mission, the spacecraft executed a controlled descent before performing its famous "belly-flop" maneuver. It then rotated into a vertical position and landed safely in the ocean.

According to SpaceX spokesperson Dan Huot, this marked the first time an entire Starship spacecraft successfully landed intact in water.

Following touchdown, the vehicle floated briefly before gradually tilting onto its side, providing valuable engineering data for future recovery operations.

Improved Booster Performance

The Super Heavy booster also showed major improvements compared to previous test flights.

Following stage separation through the hot-staging process approximately two minutes after launch, the booster executed a successful boostback burn using all 13 designated engines.

Although not every landing engine ignited during the final descent, the booster still achieved a controlled splashdown in the Gulf, demonstrating significant progress in SpaceX's reusable rocket technology.

The improvements addressed several engine synchronization issues that affected the previous Version 3 flight in May.

What Is Starship?

Starship is SpaceX's fully reusable launch system, designed to carry satellites, cargo, and eventually astronauts to destinations including the Moon and Mars.

The system consists of two reusable stages:

• Super Heavy Booster – the first stage powered by 33 Raptor engines, responsible for lifting the rocket off the launch pad.
• Starship Spacecraft – the upper stage designed to transport satellites, cargo, and future human crews.

Together, the vehicle can carry more payload than any rocket ever built.

Its fully reusable design is expected to dramatically reduce launch costs and make deep-space missions more frequent and affordable.

How Flight 13 Differs From Previous Missions

Unlike earlier Starship test flights, Flight 13 introduced several important firsts:

• First deployment of 20 Starlink Version 3 satellites
• First demonstration of Starship as an operational satellite launcher
• First in-space inspection of the spacecraft's heat shield using onboard satellites
• First successful deployment using the new satellite ejection mechanism
• Improved engine reliability and flight stability following hardware and software upgrades

These achievements move Starship beyond simple flight testing and closer to operational missions.

A Step Closer to the Moon and Mars

SpaceX continues refining Starship's landing capabilities, but Flight 13 represents one of the company's most successful missions to date.

The successful satellite deployment, improved booster performance, and controlled splashdown demonstrate steady progress toward building a fully reusable launch system capable of supporting NASA's Artemis missions, launching large satellite constellations, and eventually transporting astronauts to Mars.

With each successful flight, SpaceX moves closer to transforming the future of space exploration.

Global technology and e-commerce giant Amazon has announced plans to bring its low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet services to India, identifying the country as one of its most promising markets for expanding broadband connectivity. The company says its satellite network is designed to connect underserved and remote communities that lack access to reliable high-speed internet.

Speaking at the IAFI Space Policy Conference 2026, Chris Hofer, Head of International Spectrum Management and Strategy at Amazon LEO, said the company's mission is to "connect the unconnected" by delivering affordable and reliable broadband services across the world.

Nearly 400 Satellites Already in Orbit

Hofer said Amazon's satellite internet programme has made significant progress since its launch.

According to the company, nearly 400 low-Earth orbit satellites have already been deployed, with production continuing at a rapid pace of more than 15 satellites every week.

He noted that what began as a concept in 2019 has now evolved into a large-scale global connectivity project.

Amazon plans to continue expanding its satellite constellation to provide broadband coverage in regions where traditional internet infrastructure remains limited or unavailable.

India Seen as a Key Growth Market

Highlighting India's growing digital economy, Hofer described the country as an ideal destination for Amazon's satellite broadband services.

He said India's strong digital policy framework and large population still lacking reliable internet access make it a natural market for expansion.

According to Amazon, satellite broadband can complement existing telecom infrastructure by providing connectivity to rural, remote and geographically challenging regions where laying fibre-optic networks is expensive or impractical.

The company believes increased competition in the broadband sector will improve digital inclusion and help bridge the connectivity gap.

Focus on Connecting Underserved Communities

Amazon said its primary objective is to extend broadband access to communities that remain outside the reach of conventional internet services.

Low-Earth orbit satellite networks are capable of delivering high-speed internet with lower latency than traditional geostationary satellites, making them suitable for education, healthcare, digital governance, online businesses and emergency communications.

Industry experts believe satellite internet could play a significant role in supporting India's Digital India initiatives, particularly in remote villages and border areas.

Amazon Reaffirms $48 Billion India Investment

The satellite internet announcement comes alongside Amazon's broader investment plans for India.

The company recently increased its investment commitment for the country, announcing it will invest $48 billion (approximately ₹4.51 lakh crore) between 2026 and 2030.

Amazon President and CEO Andy Jassy announced the expanded investment following a high-level meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.

According to the company, Amazon has already invested around $40 billion (approximately ₹3.76 lakh crore) in India since 2010 across e-commerce, cloud computing, logistics, digital infrastructure and technology services.

The additional investment is expected to strengthen Amazon's operations in areas including digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, cloud services, logistics and satellite connectivity.

Boost for India's Digital Ecosystem

If launched, Amazon's satellite broadband service could provide another option in India's emerging satellite internet market, where companies are exploring next-generation connectivity solutions for underserved regions.

Industry analysts believe increased competition among satellite internet providers could accelerate broadband penetration, improve digital access and support India's growing demand for reliable internet services.

However, commercial rollout timelines, regulatory approvals and spectrum allocation details are yet to be announced.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the media ahead of the opening of the Monsoon Session of Parliament and highlighted India's growing innovation ecosystem, the achievements of young entrepreneurs, and the country's rapid progress in science and technology. During his remarks, the Prime Minister also made a light-hearted political comment that drew smiles from leaders standing alongside him, becoming one of the talking points of the day.

While speaking about India's expanding space sector, PM Modi referred to the successful achievements of private aerospace startup Skyroot Aerospace. He praised the company's contribution to India's space ambitions and emphasized how young innovators are helping the nation achieve global recognition in advanced technology.

The Prime Minister said that India's youth are creating history through innovation, entrepreneurship, and scientific excellence. Referring to the team behind Skyroot Aerospace, he noted that the average age of its members is around 28 years, calling it an inspiring example of India's emerging talent pool.

During this part of his address, PM Modi humorously remarked that he was speaking about a team of 28-year-old youngsters and "not about a 56-year-old youth." The comment immediately drew laughter from Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, who was standing behind the Prime Minister during the media briefing. Although no individual was named, the remark attracted considerable political attention as observers linked it to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.

The exchange quickly became a major discussion point as political circles recalled the long-running verbal exchanges between Prime Minister Modi and Rahul Gandhi over the years. The latest remark was widely viewed as another chapter in the political rivalry that has frequently featured sharp yet indirect comments from both sides.

Prime Minister Modi's primary focus during the briefing, however, remained on India's achievements and the importance of maintaining a productive Parliament. He urged all Members of Parliament to participate in meaningful debates supported by facts and constructive discussions. According to the Prime Minister, Parliament functions best when every representative contributes positively toward nation-building and public welfare.

Highlighting India's technological progress, PM Modi referred to the country's growing private space industry. Over the past few years, India has opened its space sector to private participation, allowing startups and technology companies to contribute alongside national institutions. This policy shift has encouraged innovation, investment, and research in satellite technology, launch vehicles, and aerospace engineering.

Skyroot Aerospace has emerged as one of the prominent examples of India's new-generation space startups. The Prime Minister praised such companies for demonstrating that Indian talent is capable of competing globally in cutting-edge sectors. He noted that the achievements of young entrepreneurs inspire confidence in India's future and strengthen the country's position in the global innovation landscape.

PM Modi also underlined that India's youth are playing an increasingly important role across multiple sectors, including digital technology, artificial intelligence, manufacturing, renewable energy, and scientific research. He said that the government's continued emphasis on innovation, startup development, and skill enhancement is creating opportunities for talented young professionals throughout the country.

The media interaction took place shortly before Parliament began its Monsoon Session, which is expected to feature discussions on several important legislative proposals and national issues. The Prime Minister expressed hope that the session would remain productive and focused on meaningful policymaking rather than prolonged disruptions.

Political observers noted that while the humorous comment attracted media attention, the broader message of the Prime Minister's address centered on India's economic growth, technological advancement, and youth-driven development. Government leaders have consistently highlighted innovation and entrepreneurship as key pillars of India's long-term growth strategy.

The government's support for startups has led to rapid growth in India's entrepreneurial ecosystem over the past decade. Several Indian startups have gained international recognition across sectors including fintech, healthcare, education, clean energy, and space technology. The Prime Minister said such achievements reflect the confidence, creativity, and determination of India's younger generation.

As Parliament proceeds with the Monsoon Session, both the government and opposition are expected to engage in discussions on legislative business and national priorities. The government has reiterated its commitment to development-oriented governance, institutional reforms, and policies aimed at strengthening India's economy and global competitiveness.

The Prime Minister concluded his interaction by expressing confidence that India's youth would continue driving innovation and shaping the country's future. He encouraged young entrepreneurs, researchers, scientists, and professionals to keep pursuing excellence and contribute to India's journey toward becoming a leading global economic and technological power.

India is set to enter a new era in commercial space exploration on Saturday as Hyderabad-based Skyroot Aerospace prepares to launch Vikram-1, the country's first privately developed orbital launch vehicle. The mission, named Mission Aagaman, is scheduled to lift off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, at 11:30 AM IST, marking a significant milestone for India's rapidly expanding private space sector.

Ahead of the launch, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the mission as a "historic new frontier" for India's space programme, highlighting it as a symbol of the country's innovation-driven growth and entrepreneurial spirit. In a message shared on X, the Prime Minister congratulated the Skyroot Aerospace team and expressed confidence that Vikram-1 would inspire a new generation of innovators while demonstrating the success of India's space-sector reforms.

Mission Aagaman Opens a New Chapter

Mission Aagaman is Skyroot Aerospace's maiden orbital mission and the first attempt by an Indian private company to place a launch vehicle into orbit. If successful, Vikram-1 will become the country's first privately built orbital rocket to deploy payloads into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at an altitude of 450 kilometres.

The mission comes six years after the Government of India opened the space sector to private participation in 2020, encouraging startups to build indigenous launch capabilities and helping the country target a significantly larger share of the global space economy.

Advanced Indigenous Rocket Technology

Vikram-1 has been developed using cutting-edge aerospace technologies. It is India's first orbital launch vehicle built almost entirely with an all-carbon composite structure, making it lighter, stronger and more fuel-efficient than conventional metallic rockets.

The four-stage launch vehicle combines three solid-fuel propulsion stages with an advanced Orbital Adjustment Module (OAM) that uses a fully 3D-printed liquid rocket engine—the first of its kind on an Indian orbital launcher. The rocket also features India's longest monolithic carbon-composite first stage, showcasing major advances in indigenous aerospace manufacturing.

Designed for rapid and on-demand satellite launches, Vikram-1 can carry payloads of up to 350 kilograms into Low Earth Orbit.

Commercial and Technology Payloads

Mission Aagaman is carrying several technology demonstration payloads developed by Indian space startups, including:

• Graha Space

• Cosmoserve Space

• DQube

• Skyroot Aerospace's in-house SCOPE payload

These payloads will help validate next-generation space technologies while collecting valuable mission data for future commercial launches.

A Golden Tribute to India's Scientific Icons

Beyond its technological significance, Vikram-1 also carries a symbolic payload celebrating India's scientific heritage.

A miniature 18-carat gold rocket, created by Cosmos Diamonds, has been included aboard the mission. The artwork features intricate micro-sculptures of three legendary Indian scientists:

• Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the father of India's space programme

• Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, renowned aerospace scientist and former President of India

• Sir C.V. Raman, Nobel Prize-winning physicist

The artistic payload, titled "Cosmic Bloom," blends science, engineering and national pride, making it one of the mission's most distinctive features.

PM Modi Hails India's Growing Space Ecosystem

Calling Vikram-1 a landmark achievement, Prime Minister Modi said the mission reflects the talent, determination and innovation of India's youth. He noted that reforms in the space sector are creating fresh opportunities for startups and private enterprises while strengthening India's position in the global space economy.

The Prime Minister also encouraged citizens, especially young people, to follow the launch and support the mission through the hashtag #IndiaWithVikram1.

Boost for India's Commercial Space Ambitions

Founded in 2018 by former ISRO scientists Pawan Kumar Chandana and Naga Bharath Daka, Skyroot Aerospace has emerged as one of India's leading private space startups. Following the successful launch of the Vikram-S suborbital rocket in 2022, the company is now attempting a full-fledged orbital mission.

A successful Vikram-1 launch would represent a major leap for India's private space industry, opening new opportunities in satellite launch services, attracting international customers and strengthening the country's ambition to become a global commercial launch hub.

India's private space sector is set to achieve a major milestone on Saturday as Hyderabad-based Skyroot Aerospace prepares to launch Vikram-1, the country's first privately developed orbital-class rocket. The launch, scheduled for 11:30 AM IST from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, marks a significant step in India's commercial space journey and is expected to strengthen the nation's position in the global launch market.

Named "Mission Aagman," the flight aims to place multiple payloads into a 450-kilometre Low Earth Orbit (LEO). If successful, the mission will make Skyroot Aerospace the first Indian private company to place payloads into orbit, following the successful suborbital launch of Vikram-S in 2022.

A Landmark for India's Private Space Industry

Until recently, orbital satellite launches in India were primarily undertaken by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Vikram-1 represents the next phase of India's space reforms, where private companies are beginning to play a significant role in launch services, satellite deployment and space technology innovation.

The mission is expected to demonstrate India's growing capabilities in developing cost-effective commercial launch vehicles capable of serving domestic as well as international customers.

Technology and Commercial Payloads Onboard

The rocket is carrying multiple technology demonstration payloads from Indian space startups, including:

• Graha Space

• Cosmoserve Space

• DQube

• Skyroot Aerospace's in-house SCOPE payload

These payloads are designed to validate new technologies and collect valuable data during the orbital mission.

Golden Tribute to India's Space Pioneers

One of the mission's unique highlights is an artistic payload created by Cosmos Diamonds.

The artwork, titled "Cosmic Bloom," includes an 18-carat gold micro-art rocket engraved with miniature portraits of three legendary Indian scientists:

• Dr. Vikram Sarabhai

• Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

• Sir C.V. Raman

The symbolic tribute celebrates India's scientific legacy while accompanying the country's first private orbital mission into space.

Lightweight Carbon-Composite Design

Vikram-1 is India's first orbital launch vehicle built almost entirely using carbon-composite structures, making it significantly lighter than conventional metallic rockets. Carbon fibre offers high strength while reducing structural weight, improving fuel efficiency and payload capability.

The launch vehicle features:

• Three solid-fuel propulsion stages that provide the primary thrust during ascent.

• A liquid-fuel Orbital Adjustment Module (OAM), responsible for precisely placing payloads into their designated orbit after reaching space.

This combination allows greater control during the final orbital insertion phase.

From Vikram-S to Vikram-1

Skyroot Aerospace made headlines in November 2022 after successfully launching Vikram-S, India's first private suborbital rocket, which reached an altitude of 89.5 kilometres during a technology demonstration mission.

Unlike Vikram-S, which was designed only for suborbital testing, Vikram-1 is a full-fledged orbital launch vehicle capable of carrying payloads weighing up to 350 kilograms into Low Earth Orbit.

Strengthening India's Space Economy

The successful launch could significantly boost India's private space ecosystem by opening new opportunities for satellite launch services, technology development and international commercial partnerships.

Industry experts believe increased private participation will complement ISRO's capabilities, attract foreign customers seeking affordable launch solutions and accelerate innovation across India's rapidly expanding space startup ecosystem.

Founded in 2018 by former ISRO scientists Pawan Kumar Chandana and Naga Bharath Daka, Skyroot Aerospace has positioned itself as one of India's leading private launch vehicle developers.

Ahead of the mission, CEO Pawan Kumar Chandana said the test flight would provide crucial data on the rocket's orbital performance, while COO Naga Bharath Daka described the launch as the culmination of nearly eight years of engineering and development.

As Mission Aagman lifts off, it carries not only technology payloads but also the aspirations of India's emerging private space industry, signalling a new era where commercial innovation works alongside national space ambitions.