IN-SPACE Explained: Boosting India’s Space Economy

A Pune-based startup, Astrophel Aerospace, has signed an MoU with IN-SPACe to use ISRO’s facilities for testing and technical support in developing semi-cryogenic propulsion systems like turbopumps and engine modules. This shows growing private participation in India’s space sector.

WHAT IS IN-SPACE:

  • The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) is an autonomous body under the Department of Space (DoS).
  • It was created as part of India’s space sector reforms to encourage private involvement in space-related activities.

Functions of IN-SPACe

  • Acts as a single-window agency for promoting, authorizing, and supervising private space activities.
  • Facilitates participation of non-governmental entities (NGEs) in building satellites, launch vehicles, and space-based services.
  • Provides access to ISRO’s infrastructure such as testing facilities, launchpads, and data centers.
  • Encourages establishment of new space infrastructure by private players.
  • Serves as a link between ISRO and private companies, ensuring effective use of India’s space resources.

Role in Space Sector Development

  • Evaluates the needs of startups, industries, and research institutions.
  • Works with ISRO to accommodate private sector requirements in projects and collaborations.
  • Promotes innovation in areas like satellite communication, navigation, and earth observation.

Organizational Structure

IN-SPACe functions through three main directorates:

  • Promotion Directorate (PD) – Encourages private sector participation.
  • Technical Directorate (TD) – Provides technical review and guidance.
  • Program Management and Authorization Directorate (PMAD) – Handles approvals and project management.

KEY BODIES:

Antrix Corporation Limited (1992) – Commercial Arm

  • Functions under ISRO but registered as a government-owned company.
  • Handles commercial marketing of ISRO products, satellites, and services.
  • Manages launch services for foreign satellites.
  • Deals with technology transfer agreements and contracts with global clients.

NewSpace India Limited (NSIL, 2019) – Commercial Execution Arm

  • A Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Department of Space.
  • Unlike Antrix (which only marketed), NSIL actually executes commercial contracts.
  • Responsible for building and launching satellites in partnership with Indian industry.
  • Helps in transfer of ISRO technologies to private companies.

Conclusion:

IN-SPACe is a vital step in India’s space reforms. By acting as a bridge between ISRO and private innovators, it will strengthen India’s position in the global space economy.

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