There are many agencies around the world making unique contributions to space science and research. Some of these agencies are known for their excellent missions and technological advancement. Let’s know about the top 7 space agencies in the world and see where India’s ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) stands.
1. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
The world’s premier space organization, NASA was founded by the United States in 1958. When Alan Shepard successfully completed a suborbital mission in 1961, it created history with its first manned spaceflight. The Hubble Space Telescope’s 1990 launch, the 1969 Apollo moon landing, and the revolutionary Mars Rover missions are among of NASA’s greatest accomplishments.
2. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO, India)
India’s space agency ISRO has made unparalleled progress in recent decades. Established in 1969, ISRO has completed many notable missions, such as Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan, and recently Chandrayaan-3. ISRO is appreciated worldwide for its high-tech and successful space missions at low cost. ISRO’s ‘Mars Mission’ was the most economical Mars mission, which has given it a strong place on the global map.
3. China National Space Administration (CNSA, China)
Though CNSA is very new, having just been established in 1993, its remarkable success has been made at a quick pace. In charge of space missions, satellite launches, and lunar exploration initiatives, it oversees China’s expanding space program.
4. Russian Federal Space Agency (Roscosmos, Russia)
Roscosmos is Russia’s premier space agency, considered a pioneer in the field of human space flight. In 1957, Roscosmos launched the first artificial satellite, Sputnik 1. They were also responsible for the iconic Yuri Gagarin’s first human space flight.
5. European Space Agency (ESA, Europe)
Europe’s space agency (ESA) is a cooperative organisation made up of 22 nations and was established in 1975. In addition to leading space research, satellite launches, and scientific investigations, it takes part in several significant space missions. ESA has ever-expanding technical capabilities.
6. Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA, Japan)
JAXA was founded in 2003, it achieved its first triumph in 1990 when Japan’s first lunar exploration mission, the Hiten spacecraft, was launched. The organization is creating reusable rockets for upcoming flights and has a major part in the International Space Station.
7. National Center for Space Studies (CNES, France)
The National Center for Space Studies (CNES) is France’s government space agency, established in 1961. It has been important in various space missions in Europe and around the world. One of its major achievements is being part of the Ariane rocket program, which is crucial for Europe’s commercial space launches.
