The year saw setting up stairway to future space missions

WHILE 2023 saw the launch of Chandrayaan-3, 2024 recorded and celebrated the progress and achievements the satellite made.

- BOSKY KHANNA @ Bengaluru

But much more happened this year.

In the words of space experts, researchers and investors, 2024 acted as a base, building platforms for launches in the coming years. It was also a starting point for more investments to roll into the space sector for research and deep tech. The Union government's announcements and policies on foreign direct investment into the sector opened the doors for the private sector to bring in their talent, provide financial support and partner with government agencies.

The highlight of the year was the Union ministry announcing the names of four astronauts for the Gaganyaan mission. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was present when the names of Group Captains Prashanth Balakrishnan Nair, Ajit Krishnan and Angad Pratap, and Wing Commander Shubanshu Shukla were announced in February for the first human space flight.