Dinesh Kamath's Editorial 'ISRO registers another successful launch' that was published in Newsband

ISRO registers another successful launch

The Indian Space Research Organisation’s second consecutive successful launch of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) is indeed laudable. The ability of ISRO scientists to learn from failures, and their resilience in overcoming technical obstacles, are commendable indeed.

ISRO has registered many a successful launch over the last few years, including its mission to the Mars. India’s dependence on foreign space agencies to launch those heavier satellites will continue till the GSLV-Mk-III is tested and declared operational. India spends approximately Rs. 500 crore per launch, and the cost is rising with each launch. The GSLV-Mk-II, at most, can save money on our own launches but it is not a revenue-earner yet.

While the Mars mission and the experimental crew capsule mission are feathers in ISRO’s cap, making rockets for satellites should be the priority. ISRO is doing commendable work but the fact is we will have to be independent in launching the heavier satellites in space. ISRO is very optimistic about India's future in space and research, which will boost the younger generation to do more research and analysis not only technically but also scientifically

ISRO has done commendable work in the past and is doing the same at present. With the development of state of the art technology Indian research and development institutes like ISRO is creating and maintaining its mark in the growing launch vehicle industry in the world. With few years down the line, ISRO should embark and strategise for commercializing these value assets. Also, creating launch pads which is a concern must be explored. Also, a deadline can be set wherein the low cost launch vehicles can be explored as source of revenue.

While the mainstream media and social media are almost full time agog with the sleazy details of some murder story and meaningless Agatha Christie/Sherlock Holmes style presentations on those, the Indian Space Research Organisation’s second consecutive successful launch of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), with an indigenous cryogenic upper stage (CUS) has had little attention in those Media circles (only lip service offered). Congratulations to our Space scientists and technicians, who are working under great constraints, unlike those in the developed nations such as the USA, Russia and even China.

Even as ISRO expands its capabilities, how soon it would achieve true self-reliance will be a crucial factor.