India approves Venus orbiter mission: a new frontier in space exploration
The Union Cabinet has officially approved the development of the Venus Orbiter Mission (VOM), a significant milestone in India’s expanding space exploration initiatives. This mission aims to deepen our understanding of Venus, the closest planet to Earth, and represents a strategic leap beyond previous lunar and Martian explorations.
The Department of Space will spearhead the VOM, which involves deploying a scientific spacecraft into orbit around Venus. This mission is designed to investigate the planet’s surface and subsurface conditions, atmospheric processes, and the influence of solar activity on Venus’s atmosphere. Scientists anticipate that studying Venus, which may have shared Earth-like conditions in its early history, could provide critical insights into the evolutionary trajectories of both planets.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will lead the mission’s development and launch, employing its established methodologies for project management and data dissemination. The mission is slated for launch in March 2028, backed by an approved budget of Rs. 1,236 crore, with Rs. 824 crore allocated specifically for spacecraft development, including payloads, technology, ground station support, and the launch vehicle.
The VOM is not only set to bolster India’s expertise in planetary science but also emphasizes substantial involvement from Indian industries in crafting the spacecraft and launch vehicle. Furthermore, the mission will engage academic institutions and students across various stages, from design to calibration, fostering collaboration that is expected to generate significant employment opportunities and technological advancements in related sectors.
With its array of innovative instruments, the Venus Orbiter Mission is poised to deliver invaluable scientific data and open new research pathways, paving the way for future planetary missions. This endeavor marks a pivotal moment for India’s space ambitions, positioning the nation as a key player in the global exploration of our solar system.
