Science TechnologyWednesday, 9 September 2026·The Hindu - Science
ESA and ISRO to discuss human spaceflight, lunar exploration and Venus mission cooperation in Paris
ESA will discuss cooperation with ISRO on Gaganyaan, lunar exploration and the Venus Orbiter Mission during the International Space Summit in Paris from September 9, 2026.
Key highlights
Direct fact
On September 9, 2026, the European Space Agency and ISRO began discussions in Paris on cooperation in human space flight, lunar exploration and the Venus Orbiter Mission, with ISRO Chairperson Dr. V. Narayanan attending the International Space Summit.
Key specifics
- ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher said he would meet ISRO Chairperson Dr. V. Narayanan in Paris.
- ISRO and ESA have already signed a Technical Implementing Plan (TIP) for Ground Tracking Support for Gaganyaan missions.
- Gaganyaan plans a crew of 3 members for a 3-day mission in a 400 km orbit.
- India’s Venus Orbiter Mission has a budget of ₹1,236 crore and is scheduled for launch in March 2028.
- The VOM launch window includes Earth departure on March 29, 2028 and Venus arrival on July 19, 2028, with 19 payloads onboard.
Exam lens
TNPSC science and space question: Gaganyaan’s 3-member crew, 400 km orbit, TIP support, and the ₹1,236-crore Venus Orbiter Mission are the key facts.