In 2024, India achieved remarkable milestones in space exploration, solidifying its position as a global space leader. The year began with the launch of XPoSat, India's first X-ray polarimetry satellite, followed by Aditya‑L1 reaching its halo orbit to continuously study the Sun. ISRO also launched key satellites like INSAT‑3DS for meteorology and EOS‑08 for Earth observation using its new SSLV launcher. A major highlight was the Reusable Launch Vehicle landing trials and SpaDeX, India's first successful space docking mission—placing it among a select few nations with such capabilities. The GSAT‑N2 communications satellite launch and Proba‑3 collaboration with the European Space Agency further demonstrated ISRO's growing technological maturity and global trust.
India's international reputation was boosted as the Chandrayaan‑3 team received the prestigious Swigert Award for their successful lunar south pole landing. ISRO also prevented ten satellite collisions in orbit, showcasing its responsible space stewardship. These missions not only advanced India's scientific knowledge and space infrastructure but also laid critical groundwork for upcoming human spaceflight (Gaganyaan) and future station goals. With a balanced focus on innovation, safety, and collaboration, 2024 marked a breakthrough year for India's space ambitions.
