India’s global space recognition
India Achieves Nine Global Records in Space Exploration: India has secured nine world records in space exploration, marking a new era of recognition for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). ISRO chief V. Narayanan announced that India now targets 8–10 more global records, including a human landing on the Moon by 2040. India’s approach of cost-effective innovation has made its programme a global benchmark of efficiency.
Landmark achievements
The Mars Orbiter Mission (2014) placed India as the first nation to reach Mars on its maiden attempt. In 2017, PSLV-C37 launched 104 satellites in a single mission, a world record. Chandrayaan-2 (2019) delivered the most advanced lunar orbiter camera, and Chandrayaan-3 (2023) made India the first nation to land near the lunar South Pole.
Static GK fact: The Mars Orbiter Mission cost just about ₹450 crore, one of the cheapest interplanetary missions in history.
Breakthroughs in cryogenic technology
Between 2014 and 2017, India achieved three world records in cryogenic engine development. The LVM3 cryogenic flight was readied in just 28 months, compared to the global average of 37–108 months. This advancement secured India’s position in indigenous cryogenic engine technology, crucial for deep space missions.
Static GK fact: Cryogenic engines use liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen, allowing rockets to carry heavier payloads into orbit.
Expanding scale of operations
India has launched over 4,000 rockets and placed 133 satellites into orbit, contributing significantly to national security, disaster management, communication systems, and economic growth. The rise of a space entrepreneurship ecosystem has further widened India’s space economy.
Static GK fact: The first Indian satellite, Aryabhata, was launched in 1975 with Soviet assistance.
Future milestones and human spaceflight
Looking ahead, ISRO is preparing for 8–10 more world records. These include new launch vehicle breakthroughs, enhanced Earth observation systems, and expanded planetary missions. By 2040, India aims to achieve a crewed lunar landing, joining an elite group of spacefaring nations.
Static GK Tip: Only three countries—USA, USSR (now Russia), and China—have successfully achieved human spaceflight so far.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
India Achieves Nine Global Records in Space Exploration:
| Topic | Detail |
| Current ISRO Chief | V. Narayanan |
| Total world records in space | 9 |
| Mars Orbiter Mission | First country to reach Mars on maiden attempt (2014) |
| PSLV-C37 | Launched 104 satellites in one mission (2017) |
| Chandrayaan-2 | Deployed advanced lunar orbiter camera (2019) |
| Chandrayaan-3 | First landing near lunar South Pole (2023) |
| Cryogenic achievement | LVM3 cryogenic stage prepared in 28 months |
| Total rockets launched | Over 4,000 |
| Total satellites launched | 133 |
| Future milestone | Crewed Moon landing target by 2040 |
