India’s space sector is poised for significant advancements in 2026, highlighted by the uncrewed Gaganyaan mission, which represents the country’s first human spaceflight initiative. This mission will utilize the human-rated Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM-3) to deploy the humanoid robot Vyommitra into low Earth orbit, testing critical life support systems. Additionally, ISRO plans to launch the Oceansat-3A satellite, enhancing maritime surveillance capabilities, and will debut the privately manufactured PSLV-N1, marking a shift towards increased private sector involvement in space endeavors. Furthermore, the successful completion of various tests for the Gaganyaan mission, alongside the anticipated launch of the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) mission, showcases India’s growing prowess in both human spaceflight and satellite technology. The collaboration with private companies, such as Skyroot Aerospace’s Vikram-1 rocket, signifies a robust evolution of India’s space economy, aiming to capture a substantial share of the global market. These developments not only underline India’s strategic ambitions in space exploration but also bolster its self-reliance and technological advancements in defense and other critical sectors, paving the way for future interplanetary missions.