In the realm of space exploration, where mission budgets often reach astronomical figures, Indian Space Research Organisation stands out as a champion of frugal innovation. But frugal doesn’t imply compromising on quality or scientific goals. Instead, it signifies an emphasis on maximising efficiency and resourcefulness and achieving remarkable feats with minimal expenditure.
Mangalyaan, at a price tag of $75 million, cost a fraction of the estimated budgets for similar missions by other space agencies. Chandrayaan, ISRO’s lunar exploration programme, demonstrates a similar commitment to affordability.
Beyond cost-effectiveness, ISRO’s frugal approach fosters a ripple effect of positive externalities. First, it ‘democratises’ space exploration by proving that groundbreaking missions are achievable without galactic budgets. Second, frugal innovation inherently promotes sustainable practices that limit the environmental impact of our cosmic curiosity. Lastly, frugality ensures a concentrated focus on the core scientific objectives of each mission, thereby prioritising the scientific return on investment by maximising the knowledge gained from each venture.
Indigenisation of technology remains the cornerstone of ISRO’s mission. It has successfully developed critical space mission components that have flown on numerous missions — a testament to its innovative capabilities. Now, ISRO is poised to share this knowledge by transferring these spin-off technologies to interested agencies, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of space exploration in India.
At the heart of India’s spacefaring success lies ISRO’s many indigenous marvels.
The Laser Gyro enables crucial navigation and attitude control for rockets like the GSLV and the PSLV and the precision landing of Vikram (Chandrayaan-3). Imagine a powerful imaging tool that provides high-resolution pictures for disaster management, urban planning, and national security needs: this is what ISRO’s Miniaturized Synthetic Aperture Radar offers. Traditionally, Synthetic Aperture Radar technology has been complex and expensive. ISRO’s Space Applications Centre has taken a significant step towards self-reliance by indigenously developing critical technologies for high-power transmission in SAR payloads. ISRO has also developed Micro-Electromechanical Systems-based pressure sensors specifically designed for the harsh environment of space. These tiny, yet powerful, sensors are crucial for monitoring spacecraft health. Spacecrafts rely heavily on DC-to-DC converters to regulate power from solar arrays to various instruments.
However, frequent failures, limited suppliers, and evolving needs (higher power, fault tolerance) were pushing ISRO to seek new, more reliable, converters. A robust and reliable system has now come into being. A crucial element for the Gaganyaan mission, the Environmental Control and Life Support System is being indigenously developed by ISRO. Developing this technology in-house gives ISRO greater control and customisation for future missions. ISRO is conceiving Semi Cryogenic Engines and Methalox Engines that would enable it to build powerful launch vehicles for missions like the Bharatiya Antariksha Station, the future Indian space station, and even the
ambitious Man on Moon 2040 mission.
ISRO’s focus on indigenous development holds immense strategic significance. It reduces dependence on foreign technology, fosters domestic innovation, and allows for greater control over mission timelines and costs. The success of these technologies paves the way for a robust Indian human spaceflight programme and opens doors for potential collaborations and commercial opportunities in the global space industry.