Overview: What is Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS)?

• The Bharatiya Antariksh Station is a proposed Indian space station that will be fully developed and managed by ISRO. It is envisioned as a modular platform in Earth’s orbit, where astronauts can live and work. The station’s purpose is to function as a research hub in space—facilitating experiments in science and technology, testing advanced systems, and enabling missions that involve humans staying in space for extended durations.Timeline:
  • First Module Launch (BAS-01): Scheduled for 2028.
  • Full Station Operational by: 2035, down from an earlier aim of 2030 due to delays (Gaganyaan program issues, COVID-19).
• The station will orbit at altitude of 400–450 km, with an inclination of 51.5°–51.6°, ensuring accessibility from various international ports.
• Configuration & Capacity:
  • Comprises five modules connected via a Common Berthing Mechanism.
  • Dimensions: approximately 27 m × 20 m in total.
  • Crew capacity: nominally 3–4 astronauts, with short-duration capability of up to 6.

BAS-01 (Base Module): The First Step

• Specs:
  • Size: 3.8 m diameter × 8 m length, weight: around 10 tonnes.
  • Indigenous technologies: includes Environmental Control & Life Support System (ECLSS), Bharat Docking System, Bharat Berthing Mechanism, and an automated hatch system.
• Display: A full-scale model was showcased during National Space Day 2025 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.

Technical Capabilities & Key Features

• Operational Tools:
  • Refillable systems for propulsion and ECLSS fluids.
  • Radiation shielding, thermal protection, and MMOD (Micro-Meteoroid Orbital Debris) safeguards.
  • Plug-and-play avionics, crew viewports, space suits, and airlocks for use.
• Research & Utilization:
  • Supports microgravity research, medicine, life sciences, Earth observation, and interplanetary exploration.
  • Potential to underpin space tourism, leveraging the orbital lab for commercial usage. Strategic Significance

• Technological Leap: BAS represents a major milestone in India’s human spaceflight capabilities, following Gaganyaan.
• Global Standing & Collaboration: Aims to establish India as a spacefaring nation alongside ISS and China’s Tiangong, with opportunities for international partnerships.
• Economic & Social Impact:
  • Enhances Earth observation for disaster management.
  • Boosts the space economy, high-tech job creation, and encourages youth to pursue STEM careers.

Gaganyaan Integration & Funding

• Expanded Gaganyaan Scope: The Gaganyaan human spaceflight program now includes development of the BAS. Approval covers eight missions, including precursor and validation missions leading to BAS-01’s launch.
• Budget Allocation: Total funding earmarked is ₹20,193 crore (approx.)—covering Gaganyaan expansion and BAS development.