ISRO plans four major satellite launches this year

Following the successful launch of the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) satellite, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has announced plans for four major satellite missions later this year.

These upcoming satellites are expected to support critical sectors such as agriculture, weather forecasting, climate monitoring, secure communications, navigation services and oceanography.

According to ISRO officials, Oceansat-3A is slated for launch within this financial year. It will support marine resource management, phytoplankton biodiversity mapping and algal bloom detection.

The NVS-03 navigation satellite will enhance indigenous, regional space-based navigation services. Also on the schedule is TDS-01, a technology demonstration satellite aimed at testing key innovations, including electric propulsion systems.

Another key mission, GSAT-7R, will be launched to serve maritime operations and military communication needs.

Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh told Parliament that India currently has space cooperation agreements with 61 countries and five multilateral bodies. ISRO has undertaken joint satellite missions, hosted foreign payloads, set up overseas ground stations and engaged in collaborative experiments and data sharing.

Singh also revealed that ISRO has proposed a G20 Satellite Mission for Environment and Climate Observation, and will collaborate with Japan’s space agency JAXA on the upcoming LuPEX/Chandrayaan-5 lunar mission. Additionally, the Venus Orbiter Mission will carry payloads from Russia and Sweden.

ISRO Chairperson Dr V Narayanan confirmed that the US communication satellite BlueBird Block 2 will be launched by ISRO.

Singh cited data from IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre), noting that 400 non-government entities (NGEs) have submitted over 650 proposals for various support activities, including technology transfers, mentorship and authorisations.

“So far, IN-SPACe has facilitated 93 technology transfers to NGEs. These initiatives are driving innovation and attracting significant investments. Cumulatively, Indian space startups have received $430 million in investments till March 2025,” Singh added.