NASA will soon provide advanced training to Indian astronauts in preparation for a joint mission to the International Space Station (ISS) either this year or shortly thereafter, according to US envoy to India Eric Garcetti. Speaking at the “US-India Commercial Space Conference” in Bengaluru, Garcetti highlighted the commitment of both nations to this collaboration, a key outcome of recent high-level visits between US and Indian leaders. The conference, hosted by the US-India Business Council (USIBC) and the US Commercial Service (USCS), brought together senior officials from NASA, ISRO, and other prominent entities in the space industry.
Garcetti also mentioned the upcoming launch of the NISAR satellite, a joint Earth-observing mission between NASA and ISRO, from ISRO’s Satish Dhawan Space Center. NISAR will monitor various Earth systems, including ecosystems, natural hazards, and sea level rise. He emphasized the broader context of the Artemis Accords, which facilitate safe and peaceful exploration of the moon and beyond, and highlighted the potential for job creation and prosperity through startups in the high-tech space sector.
The event featured significant participation from both US and Indian government officials, including ISRO Chairman Dr. S Somanath, and representatives from NOAA. USIBC President Atul Keshap expressed optimism about the deepening US-India space partnership, describing it as a new chapter in collaboration. The conference underscored the importance of strategic alliances and innovation in driving the space industry forward, with USIBC Managing Director Alexander Slater noting the continued commitment to fostering bilateral cooperation among leading companies and startups to unlock economic growth and technological leadership. Senior defence officials from both countries also met in Washington for the second annual US-India Advanced Domains Defence Dialogue (AD3), further discussing opportunities for strengthening space cooperation and enhancing collaboration in the space domain.