Bhartiya Antriksh Station (BAS)

Context

The union cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the building of the first unit of the Bhartiya Antriksh Station (BAS) by extending the scope of Gaganyaan program.

What is Bhartiya Antriksh Station (BAS)? 

• BAS is India’s proposed indigenous space station for scientific research. It will be built in three phases and will have five modules.
  • The first module, known as BAS-1, is expected to be launched in 2028, and the station will be fully operational by 2035.  
• Key Details about the BAS:
  • Orbit: The BAS will orbit the Earth at a height of around 400–450 kilometres.  
  • Weight: The station will weigh about 52 tonnes.  
  • Crew: Astronauts will be able to stay in orbit for 15–20 days.  
  • Modules: The BAS will have a crew command module, habitat module, propulsion module, and docking ports.  
  • Purpose: The BAS will be used for scientific research, including microgravity experiments, earth observation, and fostering innovation.  
  • Collaboration: The BAS will promote international collaboration with other countries and space agencies.  
  • Program: The ISRO will lead the program, which will also involve industry, academia, and other national agencies. 

Space Stations

• United States: The International Space Station (ISS), operational since 2000, serves as a hub for global research and collaboration.
• China: The Tiangong Space Station (TSS), operational since June 2022.
• Russia: The Russian Orbital Station (ROS) is set to begin construction in 2027.

Significance of the BAS

• Research Platform: It will enable Indian astronauts and scientists to conduct experiments in microgravity, astronomy, and Earth observation.
• Technology Development: It will serve as a platform for testing and validating new technologies essential for its construction and operation.
• Gateway to Interplanetary Missions: It will facilitate future interplanetary missions and provide an international platform for collaborative space research.
• Economic Impact: To create job opportunities in high-tech sectors related to space and technology.
• Inspiration for Youth: To inspire young people to pursue careers in science and technology, particularly in microgravity research.
• Milestone for Future Missions: It is a crucial step toward establishing India’s space station by 2035, supporting a crewed moon mission by 2040 and advancing space exploration by 2047.

How will the Space Station Benefit India?

• Microgravity Experiments: A space station would provide a platform for conducting unique scientific experiments in microgravity, which could lead to breakthroughs in materials science, biology, and medicine.
• Innovation: Developing and operating a space station would drive technological advancements and foster innovation in areas such as life support systems, robotics, and space habitats.
  • Chinese cabbage grown on the ISS in the Veggie growth system showed reduced biomass.
• Leadership and Prestige: Having its own space station would enhance India’s position as a global leader in space exploration, showcasing its technological prowess and strengthening international partnerships.
  • It will provide Indian companies larger access to satellite manufacturing, servicing and boost the aerospace sector.
• Human Spaceflight Experience: Building on the success of the Gaganyaan mission, a space station would offer extended opportunities for Indian astronauts to gain experience and contribute to long-duration missions.

CBLPractice Questions for Prelims

Which of the following space agencies is responsible for the development of the Bhartiya Antriksh Station (BAS)?

a) NASA
b) Roscosmos
c) ISRO
d) European Space Agency

Answer: c) ISRO

CBL Mains Practice Question

Highlight the economic benefits of BAS, such as job creation, fostering innovation, and attracting international business for satellite launches and space tourism.?

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