Overview
During the concluding day of the National Space Technology Conclave 2026, held at Chandigarh University, senior ISRO experts outlined India’s strategic roadmap for next‑generation satellite systems. Dr. Nilesh M Desai, former Director of the Space Applications Centre, emphasized that India has become a global leader in radar system development over the past decade, now covering almost all major radar frequency bands and attracting collaborations with leading space agencies such as NASA, JPL, France’s space entities and JAXA.
AI, Machine Learning, Quantum and Inter‑Satellite Links
Dr. Desai stated that Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Quantum Technology and Inter‑Satellite Links (ISLs) will transform upcoming Indian satellites. On‑board AI/ML processing and edge computing will enable satellites to analyse data in space, delivering real‑time information for faster decision‑making, governance, planning, policy formulation and disaster management. Quantum technology is projected to safeguard financial transactions, banking operations, stock‑market activities and military communications by preventing cyber frauds. Additionally, ISRO is enhancing secure navigation capabilities through a multi‑layer security architecture to counter spoofing attacks, and is advancing the Space‑Based Surveillance (SBS) programme to further bolster national security.
Space Sustainability Concerns
Dr. Anil Kumar, former Director of ISTRAC, highlighted space sustainability as a critical challenge. He warned that the increasing number of satellites, defunct spacecraft, spent rocket stages and debris fragments raises collision risks that could trigger cascade events, jeopardising orbital regions and even posing re‑entry hazards on Earth. He called for responsible space operations, continuous debris monitoring, collision‑avoidance measures, debris‑mitigation practices and stronger international cooperation, noting India’s active participation in global forums and adherence to international guidelines.
Launch Capability Milestones
Senior Managing Director of Chandigarh University, Deepinder Singh Sandhu, reflected on ISRO’s evolution from the historic Aryabhata launch in 1975 to its current status as a cost‑effective launch provider. He cited that the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) has delivered 399 foreign satellites by 2026, a dramatic increase from just 35 foreign payloads launched before 2014, illustrating India’s growing attractiveness to global customers. Sandhu linked these achievements to recent space reforms that have created an enabling environment for private sector participation, investment, innovation and technology‑led growth, reinforcing the vision of a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047.
Concluding Sessions
The second day of the conclave featured round‑table discussions on mission architecture, satellite and subsystem engineering, payload development, ground segment operations, TT&C, satellite tracking, AI‑enabled mission control and space data processing. An interactive “Meet the Scientists & Space Industry Leaders” session allowed students to engage directly with experts, followed by a student‑space leader dialogue and a valedictory function.
About Chandigarh University
Chandigarh University, a NAAC A+‑graded autonomous institution and QS‑world‑ranked university, offers over 109 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hospitality, commerce and other fields. It is the youngest private university in Punjab and has been recognized as the university with best placements by the World Corporate Roundtable (WCRC).