Further into space

INDIA'S QUEST FOR self-reliance in space technology has now been met in substantive measure with the launch of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) from Sriharikota. The majestic Indian triumph marks the fruition of a dream dared four decades ago by a few visionary nation-builders, especially Vikram Sarabhai: to create a full-fledged space programme for the nation. What makes the latest lift-off an occasion to mark in India's chequered space history is the ability of the nation's scientists to handle complex systems. That the launch took place exactly three weeks after the March 28 last-second abort reflects not just the mastery of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) over launch vehicle techniques. It is also a testimony in space to the ability of the organisation that it can quickly and accurately identify its mistakes and correct them. With its success, the ISRO has proved yet again that it can deliver what it promises to do, despite initial setbacks. In its immediate recovery from the aborted launch, the standing of ISRO as a `can- do' organisation has been established by becoming the sixth in the world to develop the capability to launch satellites into the highly challenging geosynchronous transfer orbit, which calls for mastery over launch vehicle and guidance systems.

While there is no doubt that Indian space capability has gained a remarkable boost with the GSLV, it would also be necessary to place the latest achievement in perspective. The most important factor to be weighed while evaluating the significance of the launch is that the very crucial cryogenic stage of the launch vehicle is imported. The ability of the GSLV to launch heavier communication satellites presently in vogue would also come under question, especially given the rapid advances made by other agencies. Nonetheless, the success should give the Indian space establishment the confidence to proceed with its own developments in cryogenic technology. Moreover, the latest Indian success has come against some odds. Some of which, especially the difficulties faced on account of restrictions in transfer of cryogenic technology, could have been averted if India had unhesitatingly chosen to go indigenous in this core area. The immediate need is to intensify the efforts to make up for the

lost time. The placing of the satellite in geosynchronous transfer orbit puts to test the Indian ability to handle complex satellites. In the years ahead, ISRO should take its aggressive efforts at indigenisation further, now that it has the confidence of a successful developmental launch. The nation's space organisation should also embark upon a programme to popularise its efforts to draw upon the wider support and enthusiasm that prevails in the country for advances in science and technology.

The long saga of the GSLV has also provided a much-required avenue of expression for the latent pool of scientific talent available in the nation. The involvement of over 150 organisations - including industries in the private sector and leading academic institutions - in this success story only proves the need for a convergence of the available domestic capabilities for furthering scientific advances. With appropriate adaptations, the success of the ISRO's linkages with industry and academia could be replicated in other crucial areas. To build on the successful launch of the GSLV, there should be adequate support from Parliament as well as the Government, especially at a time when the Tenth Plan allocations are under way. The thrust of the future of ISRO should be to make the required quantum leap to take the nation closer to the rapid developments that are taking place in the select group of nations involved in space technology. India should not be happy with merely remaining in the space club. It is important that it does not remain a laggard.

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