According to Dr Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, India is set to launch the European Union’s Proba-3 space satellite in the first week of December 2024, marking another milestone in its burgeoning role as a global space leader.
While speaking at the Indian Space Conclave 2024, Dr Singh said that this underscores the deepening partnership between India and the EU in space research and exploration. This mission, aimed at observing the sun, signifies both nations’ commitment to advancing scientific knowledge while reinforcing the reputation of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) as a trusted partner in international space missions. The Proba-3 satellite, which arrived this morning at pòłSriharikota, is aimed at observing the sun and reflects a new level of equal collaboration between India and other major space powers.
The Proba-3 satellite will be India’s third such launch for the EU, with previous missions supporting the Proba-1 and Proba-2 satellites. However, this mission is unique in its focus on solar observation. Further, he explained that Proba-3 will provide valuable insights into solar corona dynamics, adding to ISRO’s portfolio of ambitious scientific ventures, which recently included the groundbreaking Chandrayaan-3 lunar mission.
Further, Dr Singh credited the Prime Minister’s forward-thinking policy changes with the rapid transformation of India’s space sector. Previously, the space sector was limited by strict governmental controls and secrecy, but the liberalised approach has led to exponential growth, with India now boasting over 300 space startups contributing to an array of domestic and global projects. This growth is a testament to the nation’s increasing technological capability and its capacity to support world-class research.
He also pointed out that the policy shift is not just about exploration, it is about leveraging space technology to enhance infrastructure and everyday life across India. Today, satellites play a role in urban planning, agriculture, and even groundwater monitoring under India’s flagship “Jal Shakti” water conservation program. As a result, sectors previously untouched by space technology, such as transportation and rural development, are reaping the benefits of these advancements.
