New Delhi: Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) is India’s ambitious plan to build its own space station, and now the project has taken a major step forward. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has invited domestic companies to build the first module of the station, marking a shift from planning to real execution.
This move not only boosts India’s space capabilities but also promotes self-reliance in advanced space infrastructure. The first module, expected to launch by 2028, will act as the foundation of India’s long-term presence in space and open new opportunities for science, industry, and innovation.
What is Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS)
Bharatiya Antariksh Station is India’s planned modular space station that will orbit Earth at around 400 km altitude.
- Total modules planned: 5 modules
- First launch target: 2028
- Full completion target: 2035
- Crew capacity: 3–4 astronauts
- Purpose: Long-duration space missions and research
It will help India join a select group of nations with independent space station capabilities.
ISRO Invites Indian Industry for Bharatiya Antariksh Station
ISRO, through the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), has issued an Expression of Interest (EoI) to Indian companies.
Key Highlights:
- Only domestic companies can participate
- Focus on building the first orbital module (BAS-01)
- Encourages public-private partnership in space sector
- Promotes “Make in India” in space technology
This is a big shift where private companies will play a major role in India’s space missions.
Details of Bharatiya Antariksh Station First Module
The first module is the base structure of the entire station.
Important Details:
- Estimated cost: ₹1,763 crore
- Launch target: 2028
- Size: ~3.8 m diameter, 8 m height
- Includes:
- Habitable section
- Propulsion system
- Built using space-grade materials and precision engineering
This module will act as the core building block, to which future modules will be attached.
Advanced Technologies Involved
The BAS project will use cutting-edge space technologies:
1. Docking & Navigation
- Autonomous docking using lidar and radar sensors
- Advanced Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) systems
2. Robotics
- Robotic arms for maintenance and payload handling
- Semi-autonomous systems for operations
3. Safety Systems
- Fail-safe abort mechanisms
- Strict safety standards for human missions
4. Microgravity Research
- Research in:
- Medicine
- Materials science
- Biology
These technologies will make India capable of long-term human space missions.
Focus on Human Space Missions
The station is designed for long-duration astronaut stays.
Features:
- Comfortable crew living spaces
- Lighting designed for circadian rhythm
- Exercise and hygiene facilities
- Psychological support through smart design
This ensures astronauts can live and work safely in space for months.
Scientific and Strategic Importance
Scientific Benefits:
- Microgravity experiments
- Space medicine research
- Advanced manufacturing in space
Strategic Benefits:
- Reduces dependence on foreign space stations
- Boosts India’s global space position
- Supports future missions like lunar exploration
The station will also act as a logistics hub for future deep space missions.
Why This Move is a Big Deal
1. Boost to Indian Space Industry
Private companies will gain experience in high-end space manufacturing.
2. Economic Growth
New opportunities in space-tech, manufacturing, and research.
3. Global Competition
India enters the league of countries with independent space stations.
Bharatiya Antariksh Station: Timeline at a Glance
| Milestone | Timeline |
| Cabinet Approval | 2024 |
| Industry Invitation | 2026 |
| First Module Launch | 2028 |
| Full Station Completion | 2035 |
Read also: What Is Zero Gravity Training? How ISRO Is Preparing Gaganyaan Crew for Space Reality
