ISRO's PSLV rocket to launch Japan's ISSA-J1 satellite
ISRO's PSLV rocket to launch Japan's ISSA-J1 satellite
In News
For the first time, a Japanese company (Astroscale Japan) has procured a dedicated Indian PSLV rocket to launch its ISSA-J1 (In-situ Space Situational Awareness–Japan 1) satellite.
The mission is scheduled for spring 2027 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota, under a launch agreement with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), the commercial arm of ISRO.
About ISSA-J1 Mission
Developer: Astroscale Japan, under Japan’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) programme.
Objective:
To strengthen Space Situational Awareness (SSA) – the ability to detect, track, understand, and predict the behaviour of objects in space (satellites, defunct satellites, debris).
To inspect and diagnose two large satellite debris in orbit.
Technological Basis: Builds on Astroscale’s heritage in rendezvous, proximity operations, inspection, and characterization of space objects.
Significance: First time Japan is using an entire PSLV for a dedicated foreign mission.
Why Space Situational Awareness (SSA) Matters
Increasing congestion in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) due to mega-constellations, satellites, and debris.
SSA helps ensure safe, secure, and sustainable use of space.
Enables collision avoidance, debris tracking, and protection of space assets.
India–Japan Space Collaboration
Astroscale partnerships in India:
MoUs with Bellatrix Aerospace and Digantara (space debris monitoring & propulsion solutions).
Local representative: MEMCO Associates.
Announced during India–Japan Economic Forum (Aug 2025) attended by PMs of both nations.
NSIL selected after evaluation of 10+ launch providers – PSLV chosen for its proven reliability (≈60+ successful LEO launches), cost-effectiveness, and technical capability.
Significance for India
Enhances India’s role as a global commercial launch hub.
Expands foreign collaborations and market presence in the space sustainability sector.
Boosts India’s credibility in SSA and debris management, aligning with international efforts on space safety.
Strengthens India–Japan strategic ties, especially in science, technology, and Indo-Pacific cooperation.
