India Expands Gaganyaan Initiative: Two Crewed Missions by 2028

India is broadening its Gaganyaan mission to include two crewed space flights by 2028, up from one initially planned. The program now entails eight missions total, with increased funding set at Rs 20,193 crore to meet programmatic needs and new projects such as the Bharatiya Antariksh Station.

India is escalating its ambitions in space exploration with an expanded Gaganyaan mission, planning to execute two crewed space flights by 2028. This strategic move was disclosed in a parliamentary session on Thursday.

The mission now includes a total of eight flights, with two being crewed, confirmed Union Minister Jitendra Singh. This marks a significant shift from the previous plan, which involved only one crewed flight.

The budget for this initiative has been bolstered to Rs 20,193 crore to accommodate the expanded scope, addressing not just the Gaganyaan programme but also new ventures like the Bharatiya Antariksh Station. Delays previously plagued the project due to pandemic-related disruptions and technical adjustments, such as life support system development and module design revisions.