IIT Bombay is preparing to propel India into the deep space race with its ambitious ‘Daksha’ mission, which aims to launch two satellites equipped with some of the world’s most advanced space telescopes.
These telescopes are designed to observe 1.81 million cubic megaparsecs of space, nearly five times the capacity of NASA’s Fermi Gamma Ray Telescope.
The project is led by Professor Varun Bhalerao from IIT Bombay’s Physics Department, in collaboration with premier institutions including the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Raman Research Institute (RRI), Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), and the Inter University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA).
The Daksha project began in 2018 when ISRO invited proposals for new space missions.
A panel chaired by Professor Ajit Kembhavi, former IUCAA director, identified Daksha as a frontrunner due to its cost efficiency, proven technology, and strong scientific potential.
Once launched, the telescopes will focus on studying gamma ray bursts from black holes and neutron stars, which could provide vital insights into the origins and evolution of the universe.
The Space Technology and Research (STAR) Lab at IIT Bombay has played a key role in fostering innovation, offering students hands-on access to labs and mentorship.
Student involvement has been intensive, with many contributing even during holidays and beyond regular working hours.
ISRO has provided seed funding since Daksha’s shortlisting, and by December 2022, the project had met all technical requirements.
Full financial and policy approval is still awaited.
The Daksha mission represents a major step in India’s efforts to become a global leader in space research, combining advanced technology, scientific ambition, and homegrown talent to explore new frontiers in the cosmos.
