This paper explores the potential for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to support India’s growing space startup ecosystem in the emerging “Second Space Age.” As private sector involvement in space rapidly expands, India’s space startups require greater access to infrastructure, financial support, and regulatory facilitation to compete globally. The paper examines recent initiatives, such as the formation of IN-SPACe and NSIL, and the implications of India’s 2023 Space Policy, outlining ways ISRO can further catalyze innovation. By shifting focus from manufacturing to research and development, ISRO can empower startups, helping India achieve its ambitious space economy goals by 2040.
This paper explores the potential for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to support India’s growing space startup ecosystem in the emerging “Second Space Age.” As private sector involvement in space rapidly expands, India’s space startups require greater access to infrastructure, financial support, and regulatory facilitation to compete globally. The paper examines recent initiatives, such as the formation of IN-SPACe and NSIL, and the implications of India’s 2023 Space Policy, outlining ways ISRO can further catalyze innovation. By shifting focus from manufacturing to research and development, ISRO can empower startups, helping India achieve its ambitious space economy goals by 2040.
