The European Space Agency (ESA) is entering a new phase of collaboration with India, signaling its intention to work closely with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on ambitious and unexplored domains in space exploration. This announcement follows the signing of a Joint Statement of Intent on Human Space Exploration by the two agencies at the Global Space Exploration Conference (GLEX) 2025.
Dr. Josef Aschbacher, Director General of ESA, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating that ESA is eager to engage in more expansive space operations with India. “This agreement marks a new chapter in ESA-ISRO relations, opening doors to large-scale collaborative missions,” he told The Indian Express.
ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan echoed this sentiment, highlighting the long-standing relationship between the agencies. “Our cooperation spans over four decades, but this new agreement allows us to venture into uncharted areas of space science and technology together,” he said.
Although specific projects under the new agreement have not yet been finalized, both agencies are now set to begin in-depth discussions to define the scope of their collaboration. A recent visit by an ESA delegation to India laid the groundwork for this evolving partnership.
One of the key areas under consideration is India’s ambitious Bharatiya Antariksha Station (BAS), which is expected to be constructed by 2035. The space station, to be assembled in phases, will begin with the launch of its first module, BAS-1, in 2028. ESA is exploring ways to contribute to the development and logistics of the BAS, including offering cargo delivery support during its construction.
Earlier this year, ISRO demonstrated its capabilities in satellite docking through the SpaDeX mission—an essential step toward future space station assembly. ESA is also developing a cargo return vehicle for operations in Low Earth Orbit, which could potentially evolve into a human-rated spacecraft. Such a development would align with India’s goal of launching its first human spaceflight in the near future.
“Our teams will work together to identify mutually beneficial areas of cooperation, determine cost-sharing models, and leverage the unique strengths each agency brings,” said Dr. Aschbacher. These collaborations will require approvals from respective governments, including the 23 ESA member states.
As discussions continue, this renewed commitment promises to deepen ESA-ISRO cooperation, setting the stage for transformative advances in space exploration.
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