September 12, 2018
The deal comes amid India’s growing expertise in space sciences with the Government-run ISRO becoming one of the world’s most successful satellite launching agency
India, through ISRO, has utilised space sciences as an effective tool of diplomacy and maintains ties with space agencies of over 40 nations and five multilateral bodies
Over the next six months, ISRO will launch 18 missions in the next six months, including India’s second lunar mission Chandrayaan-2, as well as GSAT-11 and GSLV-MkIII-D2
ISRO keeps developing new products and services with partnering agencies, through joint missions, scientific instruments accommodation, data sharing and exchange of expertise
The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 12 approved a preliminary agreement between India and South Africa on cooperation in space sciences. Areas of cooperation under the deal include: 1) remote sensing of Earth; 2) satellite communication and navigation; 3) space science and planetary exploration; 4) use of spacecraft, launch vehicles, space and ground systems; 5) practical applications of space technology including geospatial tools and techniques; among other areas of mutual interest. This comes amid India’s growing expertise in space sciences with the state-run Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) becoming one of the world’s most successful satellite launching agency.
The space cooperation will be carried out through planning and implementation of joint space projects; establishment and operation of ground stations for supporting space activities; sharing of satellite data and scientific and technological information; joint research and developmental activities; and exchange of personnel. The countries will also join forces in capacity building in space science and technology, and space application programmes for development. Additionally, India and South Africa will organise joint conferences and scientific meetings. India, through ISRO, has utilised space sciences as an effective tool of diplomacy and maintains ties with space agencies of over 40 nations and five multilateral bodies.
ISRO also keeps developing new products and services, with partnering agencies, through joint missions, scientific instruments accommodation, data sharing and exchange of expertise. India is also a member of several international organisations to promote space cooperation to provide timely aid and generate business opportunities. In line with this, ISRO has launched eight communication satellites, seven navigational satellite, seven remote sensing satellite, two meteorological satellite, one science satellite and nine technology demonstration and student satellites over the last five years. Over the coming six months, ISRO aims to launch 18 missions in the next six months, including India’s second lunar mission.