Jadavpur University is preparing to take a major step into the country’s rapidly expanding space ecosystem, with plans underway to establish a dedicated Centre for Space Technology on campus.
The announcement came during a seminar titled “Lessons from Space: Opportunities in Space”, which drew a packed audience of students eager to hear from former Indian Space Research Organisation chairman S. Somanath and university officials about the future of India’s aerospace ambitions.
Held at the university campus in Kolkata, the seminar reflected growing academic interest in the commercial, technological and strategic opportunities emerging from the global space industry.
Former ISRO chief inspires students
Addressing the gathering, Dr Somanath described his visit to the university as memorable and praised the institution’s contribution to India’s scientific and technological progress. “I feel very good. This is my first visit to Jadavpur University,” he said while interacting with students during the programme.
The former ISRO chief urged young people to actively participate in the country’s scientific future and contribute to advancements in the space sector. “Jadavpur University has contributed so much to the space sector. I just wanted to tell the young people to be excited to contribute,” he said.
Space no longer limited to exploration
Vice-Chancellor Chiranjib Bhattacharjee said the seminar aimed to help students understand how space technology has evolved far beyond scientific exploration.
According to him, the sector today influences everyday life through navigation systems, communication networks, and satellite-based services. “Earlier, space exploration was seen only as a quest for knowledge. Today, it has become deeply connected with practical opportunities and economic growth,” he said.
Vice-Chancellor Chiranjib Bhattacharjee also spoke about the role of satellite systems in defence and national security, explaining how modern warfare and surveillance increasingly depend on space-based technologies.
JU plans dedicated centre and new courses
The Vice-Chancellor confirmed that the university is seriously considering the creation of a specialised Centre for Space Technology and that preliminary discussions have already taken place with Somanath. “We are planning to submit a proposal to establish a dedicated Centre for Space Technology,” he said.
The proposed centre is expected to focus on advanced research while also opening doors to specialised postgraduate programmes for students interested in aerospace and satellite technology. The overwhelming turnout at the seminar reflected the growing curiosity among students regarding careers in India’s expanding space economy.
