AI and robotics will reshape space exploration, former ISRO chief says

Artificial intelligence, machine learning and robotics will fundamentally change space exploration and open opportunities for students, startups and private companies, former Indian Space Research Organisation chairman A.S. Kiran Kumar said on Thursday in Chittoor. Addressing students at the Srinivasa Institute of Technology and Management Studies on “AI and ML in Space Science”, Mr.

Kiran Kumar said India’s space programme had primarily focused on applications intended to improve everyday life. He cited weather forecasting, cyclone warnings, fisheries, tele-education and telemedicine as examples of how space technology had been applied for public benefit. He also credited Vikram Sarabhai’s vision with establishing the foundations of India’s space programme.

According to Mr. Kiran Kumar, India built its own capabilities despite being denied access to advanced technology. He referred to the country’s progression from the Satellite Launch Vehicle and Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle programmes to the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle.

He also recalled major missions, including Chandrayaan-1’s discovery of water molecules on the Moon, the first-attempt success of Mangalyaan at Mars, Chandrayaan-3’s lunar landing and the Aditya-L1 solar mission. Mr. Kiran Kumar described space as the “fourth frontier” after land, oceans and air, and said it represented a major economic opportunity.

He said AI was already being used to analyse satellite data, support autonomous navigation, operate robotics, manage disasters and anticipate maintenance requirements. He said AI would assist scientists rather than replace them, and urged students to strengthen their fundamentals, pursue research and develop innovations that could help India expand its position in the global space sector.