If IN-SPACe Is The Answer, What Is The Question, And Why Should You Care?

Consider a famous, even clichéd, proverb: “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” It indicates that the size of the first step matters less than its ceremonial significance, and that the latter should inspire optimism and hope.

The Government of India's recent announcement to set up the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) is a milestone in the history and progression of India's space programme. However, if the government is to achieve its stated goal of indigenising the space sector and creating an economic enterprise around it, IN-SPACe must also initiate significant changes in both policy and the sector's culture. Only then can it enable a private space economy of global interest and significance.