Aerospace technologies: a terrestrial focus

The exacting requirements of India´s space program have demanded the participation of industry on a large scale, so India has from the very beginning striven to involve its businesses in the endeavor. With all this diffusion of tasks, skills, techniques, and technologies, a vibrant and dynamic space industry has emerged that cuts across small, medium-sized, and large concerns in both public and private sectors. The program has become an integral part of Indian society, with benefits extending over several areas of endeavor. The challenge in this decade will be not only to consolidate benefits accrued so far, but to set out on new pathways. For two decades, space activity in India has focused on benefiting the populace at large and it will continue to do so.<>