NEW DELHI: With growing interest of young minds in the space sector, space technology courses have mushroomed across several top institutes and colleges in the recent 2-3 years. From introductory courses to bachelor’s degree to master’s programme to PhD thesis in space, students and youths who aspire to join the space field are now spoilt for choice.
Now, there are space tech courses for every age. While Isro has started summer courses for school students at some of its centres like Bengaluru, Thiruvananthapuram and Ahmedabad where students can learn about different space applications and make their own satellites, some of the IITs, including those in Mumbai, Madras and Roorkee, have started specific courses on space sector.
Isro chairman S Somanath, who launched an AICTE-approved model curriculum in space technology on Tuesday, said, “By equipping our students with the necessary knowledge and skills, we are paving the way for our nation to further establish itself as a global leader in space technology. Space technology is not something that can be bought; it requires developing knowledge and skills within our system and institutions. The investment we have made in our space program has profoundly benefited society in terms of economy, job creation, disaster management, and natural resource management. This model space curriculum will be crucial in producing the next generation of space scientists, engineers, and leaders who will carry forward Isro’s legacy of excellence.”
The Indian space economy is valued at $8.4 billion and is expected that the number of space objects of Indian origin will grow exponentially in the foreseeable future.
According to a study by IIIT-Delhi director Rajan Bose, there are several space-related sectors where young talent is needed. The percentage of share of postings requiring skill in these related sectors are aerospace engineering (40%), manufacturing (23%), system engineering (16%), space exploration (15%) and remote sensing (13%)
Lieutenant General A K Bhatt, Director General of Indian Space Association (ISpA) said, “We need increased collaboration between academia, industry and research institutions to foster innovation and accelerate technological development. Investment in STEM education is crucial to nurture the next generation of space scientists and engineers.”
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