Cabinet gave approval for development of first module of Bharatiya Anthariksh Station (BAS-1) and undertake missions to demonstrate and validate various technologies for building and operating BAS.

• Presently, there are two space stations in orbit namely, International Space Station and China’s Tiangong Space Station.

Revised Gaganyaan Programme

• Gaganyaan Programme approved in 2018 envisages undertaking the human spaceflight to Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
  • It targets development and demonstration of critical technologies for long duration human space missions.
• Under Revised Programme, ISRO will undertake four missions under ongoing Gaganyaan Programme by 2026 and development of BAS-1 & four missions for demonstration & validation of various technologies for BAS by December, 2028. 
  • By 2035, ISRO plans to construct additional modules to achieve full operational status for space station.
• BAS is currently in conceptualization phase, under which overall architecture, number and types of modules, docking ports etc. are being studied. 

Significance of BAS

• Fulfil Amrit Kaal vision for creation of BAS by 2035 and Indian Crewed Lunar Mission by 2040. 
• Boost microgravity-based scientific research, technology development activities, and encourage innovations.
• Boost employment in high-tech space and allied sectors with enhanced industrial participation.