The Hindu Business Line : ISRO targeting 25% revenue growth in 2009-10

Mr Madhavan Nair, Chairman, Indian Space Research Organisation, receiving the M.P. Birla memorial award from Mr H.V. Lodha, Trustee, M.P. Birla Institute of Fundamental Research in Kolkata on Saturday. —

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Kolkata, July 4 The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is targeting 25 per cent growth in revenue in 2009-10 over Rs 1,000 crore in the last fiscal, according to Mr G. Madhavan Nair, Chairman of ISRO, Chairman, Space Commission, and Secretary, Department of Space.

Addressing presspersons here on Saturday on the sidelines of the presentation of the M.P. Birla Award 2009 to him for achievements in the fields of astronomy, astrophysics, space science and allied disciplines, Mr Nair said, “Nearly 15-20 per cent of the revenue may come from launching satellites on behalf of other countries.”

Replying to a question, he said the reported delay in launch of satellites by the European Space Agency might lead to more countries using the Indian Polar Satellite Landing Vehicles. The revenue might also increase on account of more use of satellite services by DTH and telecom providers, he added.

Space research

In last year’s Budget, the Centre had earmarked Rs 4,000 crore for space research, Mr Nair said adding that ISRO was awaiting fund allocations in the forthcoming Budget.

On Chandrayan II, the second moon mission by India slated for 2013, Mr Nair said there were concerns over landing of the rover and subsequent impact management. Landing on the moon was not a part of the Chandrayan I project. “Our first lunar mission has given us a substantial understanding about entering the moon’s orbit. But ensuring the safe landing of the rover on the surface of the moon is an obstacle. Since the moon doesn’t have an atmosphere, using parachutes will not be possible, so we are exploring other alternatives,” he said.

There are also plans of launching a geo-stationary satellite within two to three years to cater to the India Meteorological Department’s weather-change monitoring system, he added. Mr Nair did not give any timeframe for the launch of India’s first manned mission to the moon.

Mars mission

The first Mars mission by India was likely to be finalised in a year, he said while adding that the project could suffer a modest setback because of the paucity of qualified manpower.