ISRO! A Leader in Affordable Space Missions - Payal Sekhawat , BCA I-Sem, Session 2025-26
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), founded in 1969 and headquartered in Bengaluru, is India’s premier space agency. It pioneers missions that not only expand scientific discovery but also contribute to national development and inspire curiosity across the country.
In a field where costs often define ambition, ISRO has proved that resourcefulness can outshine expenditure. While leading space agencies around the world operate with billion-dollar budgets, ISRO consistently achieves remarkable milestones at just a fraction of those costs.
Milestones of Affordable Excellence
- Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan, 2013): Achieved on a budget of just $74 million, about 11% of NASA’s MAVEN mission cost (~US $671 million). Despite its low cost, it successfully orbited Mars for nearly 8 years, far beyond its planned lifespan.
- Chandrayaan-3 (2023): With an estimated cost of $75 million, India became the first country to land successfully near the lunar south pole region. This achievement brought global recognition and awards.
- Chandrayaan-1 (2008): India’s first lunar mission, costing about ₹615 crore $80 million, made the groundbreaking discovery of water molecules on the Moon.
These missions succeeded through lightweight designs, efficient instruments, and a modular approach, proving that innovation can deliver world-class results at minimal cost.
The Symposium Experience
The Aravali Institute of Technology Symposium offered an exciting 
journey through ISRO’s past missions, present technologies, and ambitious future plans. The event was both informative and inspiring, especially because it was addressed by Shri Nilesh M. Desai, Director of the Space Applications Centre (SAC), Ahmedabad, along with other respected scientists.
Listening to their insights and learning about India’s collective achievements in space exploration was a moment of pride. Models of rockets such as PSLV and GSLV, along with a live water rocket demonstration, captured everyone’s imagination. We also gained knowledge about upcoming missions like Gaganyaan (India’s first human spaceflight mission) and the proposed Venus Orbiter Mission (Shukrayaan-1). Although popularly referred to as Chandrayaan-4 in some discussions, ISRO has officially announced the Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX) with Japan instead of a Chandrayaan-4.
Another highlight was the mobile science van, designed to provide interactive learning for students. Exploring ISRO’s journey, from its humble beginnings to its present global stature, helped us appreciate the struggles and dedication of the scientists who made it possible.
A Memorable Experience
The symposium was a truly unforgettable and inspiring experience. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the ISRO team members for their valuable time and guidance, to the Aravali Institute of Technology for hosting such an
