India has signed an agreement with Mauritius to jointly develop a small satellite, which will be launched by ISRO in early 2024. The cooperation will be between ISRO and Mauritius Research and Innovation Council (MRIC).
Satellite Development and Launch Timeline
Realization of the satellite through participation of Indian industries is expected within 15 months.
Project would cost Rs 20 crores borne by India.
Benefits to India
The joint satellite project will ensure continued Mauritian government support for ISRO’s critical ground tracking station located in the island country. This station aids India’s launch missions.
Additionally, MRIC agreeing to provide their ground infrastructure for ISRO’s future small satellite projects signals widened scope of bilateral space collaboration.
Background on Partnership
- Background: In 1980s ISRO established a ground station in Mauritius for tracking and telemetry support for ISRO’s launch vehicle and satellite missions, under a country-level agreement signed in 1986 for this purpose.
- Current Program: The MoU will establish a framework for ISRO and MRIC collaboration on the creation of a cooperative satellite as well as collaboration on the usage of the MRIC’s Ground Station. The satellite realization is proposed to be completed in a 15 months time frame.
About MRIC
The Mauritius Research and Innovation Council (MRIC) constitutes the apex advisory body on matters related to research, innovation and development in the country.
Legally constituted in 2019 via the MRIC Act, the council is mandated to steer the research ecosystem, spur innovation and boost industry-academic links.
Know About Mauritius
– An island country in the Indian Ocean, located off the eastern coast of Africa. It is a part of the Mascarene Islands.
– Capital: Port Louis
– Major rivers: Grand River South East and Black River.
– Lake Vacoas, is one of the main reservoirs, and is the chief source of water.