The Artemis Accords are a practical set of principles, guidelines and best practices to enhance the governance of the civil exploration and use of outer space with the intention of advancing the Artemis programme. India has signed the Artemis Accord on June 21, 2023, becoming the 27^th signatory. However, India is not a participant in the NASA led Artemis Programme, which is a mission-driven initiative led by NASA to return humans to the Moon and beyond. India has outlined its own ambitious vision for space exploration under its Space Vision 2047. This includes mission such as Chandrayaan series for lunar exploration and Gaganyaan continuation programme leading to Bhartiya Antariksha Station, reflecting India’s vision to advancements in space exploration. However, ISRO will explore the possibilities of participation in the Artemis programme in future.

It is planned to launch one Indian astronaut aboard Crew Dragon of SpaceX for the upcoming ISRO-NASA joint mission to the International Space Station (ISS) under the Spaceflight Agreement with M/s. Axiom Space INC, USA.

The launch is expected during second quarter (Q2) of 2025.

This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO and Department of Space, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

***

NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2115228) Visitor Counter : 812