List of Space Research Centres in India

March 4, 2025

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Knowing the names and locations of the Space Research Centres in India holds significance for candidates gearing up for competitive exams. This blog consolidates a comprehensive list of India’s Space Research Centres and units, aiming to facilitate a seamless exam preparation journey. Delve into the Brief History of the Indian Space Program and Research Centres as you read further.

India has achieved remarkable milestones in space technology. Be it Mission Mangal or Chandrayaan 1, India has proven its caliber in space across the world. India’s Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) and Chandrayaan missions exemplify the nation’s commitment to space exploration. These missions have received global acclaim for their cost-effectiveness and scientific achievements, reinforcing India’s position in the global space community.

The growth of space research centers in India underscores the country’s dedication to scientific progress and innovation. Their contributions not only boost technological advancements but also inspire the younger generation to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.

We currently have 13 major space research centres in India, directly under ISRO. Let’s talk about some of them in brief:

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)

ISRO is the primary space agency of the Government of India. ISRO was founded on August 15, 1969. ISRO built its first satellite, Aryabhata on April 19, 1975, which was launched by the Soviet Union. It is headquartered in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The main center of ISRO is Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota. It is known as the main Centre for manufacturing major Indian satellites.

Satish Dhawan Space Centre

Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR is a rocket launch center located in Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh. It was formed in 1969. Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) was earlier known as Sriharikota Range but was renamed in 2002 after ISRO’s former chairman Satish Dhawan.

The current director of SDSC is Arumugam Rajarajan. This rocket launch center currently is the only Spaceport in India. SDSC is responsible for providing Launch Base Infrastructure for the Indian Space Programme. ISRO sends satellites into space using multistage rockets like the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) from Sriharikota. ISRO selected Sriharikota as the launch pad because it is close to the equator which gives an additional boost for propulsion from the Earth’s rotation.

Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC)

The Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, stands as a crucial hub dedicated to the development and rigorous testing of rockets. Renowned for its expertise in rocketry, VSSC plays a pivotal role in conceptualizing, designing, and refining various stages of rockets. Its significance lies in fostering innovation, conducting meticulous research, and conducting thorough evaluations, contributing significantly to India’s space endeavors. VSSC’s state-of-the-art infrastructure and specialized teams ensure the precision and reliability required for successful rocket development, emphasizing its pivotal role in advancing India’s space exploration aspirations.

Dr. S. Unnikrishnan Nair, an Indian aerospace engineer, currently holds the position of director at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC). He is known for his work in the field of launch vehicle design, Space Capsule Recovery Experiment (SRE), and Human Spaceflight Programme.

National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC)

National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) is located in Hyderabad, Telangana. It is one of the centers of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). This center was earlier known as the National Remote Sensing Agency (NRSA) and comes under the Department of Space (DOS). It was converted into one of the centers of ISRO on September 01, 2008.

National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) is responsible for remote sensing satellite data acquisition and processing, data dissemination, aerial remote sensing, and decision support for disaster management. It is also engaged in executing remote sensing application projects in collaboration with the users.

List of Space Research Centres in India

With the substantial information you’ve gained about space research centers in India, we’d like to provide you with a list of the centers related to ISRO. This comprehensive compilation of India’s space research centers will aid in your preparation for various competitive exams as well.

Other Autonomous bodies in liaison with ISRO

Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) – Ahmedabad, Gujarat

National Atmospheric Research Laboratory (NARL) – Thirupathi, Andhra Pradesh

North Eastern-Space Applications Centre (NE-SAC) – Ri Bhoi, Meghalaya

Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) – Valiamala, Kerala

Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe) – Ahmedabad, Gujarat

Some eminent names in Space research in India

When we talk about space research in India, we are reminded of a few prominent names in India’s Space Research Programme since its inception. Here are a few:

Vikram Sarabhai: Known as the “Father of the Indian Space Program”, he played a pivotal role in establishing ISRO.

Satish Dhawan: Succeeded Sarabhai and significantly contributed to India’s space advancements.

APJ Abdul Kalam: Renowned scientist and former President of India, known as the “Missile man of India” contributed significantly to India’s missile and space programs.

K. Radhakrishnan: Former Chairman of ISRO, contributed extensively to various space missions and advancements.

Ritu Karidhal: Known as the “Rocket Woman of India,” she has been a key figure in numerous successful space missions.

S Somanath: Serving as the current Chairman of ISRO, under whose leadership ISRO conducted the third lunar exploration mission of India, known as Chandrayaan-3, launched in 2023.

These individuals have made substantial contributions to India’s space program, marking milestones and propelling the nation’s space exploration endeavors.

ISRO Current and Future Missions

ISRO has scheduled several ambitious missions to push the boundaries of space exploration. Our most significant plans include:

Gaganyaan Mission–India’s maiden human spaceflight mission, which is planned to send Indian astronauts into space by 2025. The mission is crucial to India’s future endeavors in deep-space exploration.
India planned Shukrayaan-1 to study Venus, including its atmosphere and surface chemistry.
Aditya-L1 Mission–India’s maiden solar-specific observatory, launched in September 2023, to study the outer atmosphere of the Sun.
NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar)–A joint venture with NASA, to be launched in 2024, for high-end Earth observation and climate research.
These missions indicate India’s serious intent towards space research and its willingness to move out of the Earth’s orbit.

Role of Space Research Centres in India’s Development

India’s 13 major space research centers, as well as autonomous bodies associated with ISRO, are the hub of India’s space research and development. Some of the key functions are:

Rocket and Launch Vehicle Development–Rocket propulsion systems and testing are the work of institutions like Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) and Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC).
Satellite Research and Development–Engineers at the U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC) in Bengaluru design and produce satellite missions for communications, weather forecasts, and Earth observation.
Ground Observations and Data Processing–The National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) interprets and processes satellite images for various uses like agriculture, disaster management, and urban planning.

Conclusion

In conclusion, India’s space research centers, spearheaded by ISRO, have evolved significantly and play a pivotal role in scientific discoveries, technological advancements, and global cooperation. The significance of these space research centers extends far beyond national pride. They contribute substantially to technological advancements, weather forecasting, telecommunications, and national security. ISRO’s missions have resulted in cost-effective satellite launches, enhancing communication networks, remote sensing, and resource management.

Their contributions are integral to various sectors, making them indispensable for India’s development and its standing in the global space arena.

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