India’s space station module launching soon: resembles “6 BHK”

Mumbai

India is set to make a historic leap in space exploration with the upcoming launch of the first module of its very own space station, the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS), according to astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla. Speaking at the India Today Conclave in Mumbai, Shukla, who flew on the SpaceX Dragon to the International Space Station during the Axiom-4 mission in July, said, “Plans are in place, teams are working, and the first module of BAS will be launched soon.”

Shukla described the station as resembling a “6 BHK apartment” built in a modular style. It will gradually expand to accommodate Indian astronauts living in low-earth orbit and conducting scientific experiments. Earlier, ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan had said the first module will be launched in 2028, forming the initial part of a five-module facility orbiting 450 km above Earth.

The Union Cabinet, led by PM Narendra Modi, approved the project, expanding the Gaganyaan program aimed at human spaceflight and laying the foundation for India’s long-term goals, including an operational BAS by 2035 and a crewed lunar mission by 2040. The station will feature an indigenously developed Environmental Control and Life Support System, Bharat Docking and Berthing Mechanisms, automated hatches, microgravity research platforms, and viewports for imaging and recreation.

During his ISS mission, Shukla conducted microgravity experiments on muscle regeneration, algal and seed growth, tardigrade resilience, cyanobacteria for life support, and human interaction with electronic displays. The BAS will significantly boost India’s capabilities in space-based research, technology development, industrial participation, and high-tech employment opportunities, marking a transformative milestone in the nation’s space program.