IIT Bombay’s Mission Daksha: India’s Push to Build World-Class Space Telescopes and Satellites

IIT Bombay’s Mission Daksha is positioning India at the forefront of deep space exploration. With plans to launch two satellites carrying some of the world’s most advanced telescopes, the project aims to unravel cosmic mysteries and strengthen India’s role in global astrophysics research.

India’s Leap into Deep Space Observation

Mission Daksha will equip satellites with telescopes capable of observing 1.81 million cubic megaparsecs of space—almost five times the capacity of NASA’s Fermi Gamma Ray Telescope. This scale could open unprecedented opportunities to study extreme cosmic events.

The mission, spearheaded by Professor Varun Bhalerao of IIT Bombay’s Physics Department, is a collaborative effort with premier institutions including the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Raman Research Institute (RRI), Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), and the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA).

From Proposal to Promising Reality

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) invited proposals for new space missions in 2018. A panel chaired by Professor Ajit Kembhavi, former IUCAA director, shortlisted Daksha for its cost efficiency, proven technology, and strong scientific promise.

Since then, ISRO has provided seed funding, enabling the project to meet all technical milestones by December 2022. Final financial and policy approvals are awaited before full-scale deployment.

What Daksha Will Study

Once launched, the Daksha telescopes will focus on gamma ray bursts originating from black holes and neutron stars. These events hold crucial clues about the origins, evolution, and dynamics of the universe.

Students Driving Innovation

The Space Technology and Research (STAR) Lab at IIT Bombay has played a pivotal role by offering students hands-on access to advanced laboratories, fostering research and innovation. Students have shown extraordinary dedication, contributing to the project even during vacations and outside working hours.

India’s Space Future

Mission Daksha represents a strategic leap in India’s journey to establish itself as a global leader in astrophysics and space research. By combining cutting-edge technology, strong institutional collaboration, and student-driven innovation, IIT Bombay is helping India aim higher in the cosmos.