India, Dec 03 : India’s space ambitions are set to soar higher than ever in 2026, with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) unveiling a packed calendar of missions following the historic Chandrayaan-3 Moon landing. ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan highlighted a roadmap that positions India not just as a participant but as a pace-setter in the global space arena.
The year begins with PSLV-C62, carrying the EOS-N1 satellite for advanced hyperspectral imaging, alongside 18 international co-passenger satellites, strengthening India’s role as a global launch hub. February will see PSLV-N1, entirely manufactured by Indian industry partners HAL and L&T, carrying Oceansat-3A and other collaborative payloads for oceanographic and climate research.
March promises two landmark missions: Gaganyaan G1, an uncrewed flight with the female humanoid robot Vyommitra aboard a human-rated LVM3, and SSLV-L1, marking the return of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle for commercial and technology demonstrations, reinforcing ISRO’s growing engagement with private space startups.
Mid-2026 will feature GSLV-F17, deploying the NVS-03 satellite, while late 2026 will see Gaganyaan G2, the final uncrewed rehearsal ahead of India’s first crewed orbital mission in 2027.
With private players like Skyroot Aerospace now an integral part of the ecosystem, 2026 represents a pivotal year as ISRO transitions from being the sole provider to a global hub for space technology and innovation, setting the stage for India’s entry into the elite club of human spacefaring nations.