In a significant move to bolster human space exploration, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has signed an agreement with the European Space Agency (ESA) to collaborate on astronaut training, mission implementation, and space research.
The agreement, signed by ISRO Chairman Dr. S. Somanath and ESA Director General Dr. Josef Aschbacher, outlines a framework for cooperative activities. This includes astronaut training, support for experiment development and integration, and the use of ESA facilities on the International Space Station (ISS). Joint efforts in human and biomedical research experiments, as well as educational outreach initiatives, are also part of the agreement, according to an official ISRO statement.
ISRO revealed that the agencies are working closely on the upcoming Axiom-4 mission, where ISRO's Gaganyatri astronaut and an ESA astronaut will be part of the crew. The mission includes conducting experiments proposed by Indian researchers aboard the ISS.
The partnership also encompasses participation in ESA's human physiological studies, technology demonstrations, and joint educational programs aimed at inspiring the next generation of space enthusiasts.
Dr. Somanath emphasized that ISRO’s roadmap for human spaceflight, coupled with the recent approval of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS), India’s proposed indigenous space station, provides an opportunity to develop interoperability between international human spaceflight platforms.
Dr. Aschbacher expressed gratitude for ISRO’s collaboration and highlighted the agreement as a robust foundation for future joint endeavors. Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the progress of preparations for the Axiom-4 mission and reaffirmed their commitment to advancing cooperative efforts in human spaceflight.