Archive · 2 Oct 2026
Former ISRO Chief Says AI, Robotics Will Transform Space Exploration
A.S. Kiran Kumar said computers and robots will play a bigger role in exploring space.
These technologies can help study satellite information and guide spacecraft.
They can also support robots, disaster management, and equipment maintenance.
AI can help scientists work with large amounts of information more quickly.
He said AI is meant to assist scientists, not replace them.
India’s space programme has already achieved important missions to the Moon, Mars, and the Sun.
Space technology also helps people through weather forecasts, cyclone warnings, education, and medical services.
He encouraged students to learn basic subjects and take part in future space research and businesses.
A.S. Kiran Kumar said AI, machine learning, and robotics will create new opportunities across space research and private enterprise.
AI is already used for satellite-data analysis, autonomous navigation, robotics, disaster management, and predictive maintenance.
Kiran Kumar said AI will support scientists by processing large data volumes and enabling faster decisions, rather than replacing them.
He urged students to strengthen their basic knowledge and pursue research, innovation, and space-sector opportunities.
He highlighted India’s space achievements, including Chandrayaan-1, Mangalyaan, Chandrayaan-3, and Aditya-L1, along with satellite services supporting public welfare.
- Who
- Former Indian Space Research Organisation chairman A.S. Kiran Kumar addressed students.
- What
- He discussed how artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics are changing space science and exploration.
- When
- Thursday, during his address to students.
- Where
- The Srinivasa Institute of Technology and Management Studies in Chittoor; the report is datelined Tirupati.
- Why
- To explain emerging space-sector opportunities and encourage students to pursue research, innovation, and enterprise.
- Speaker
- A.S. Kiran Kumar, former chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation
- Topic
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning in space science
- Current AI uses
- Satellite-data analysis, autonomous navigation, robotics, disaster management, and predictive maintenance
- Economic potential
- The space sector was described as a major opportunity for research, innovation, startups, and private companies
- Public benefits
- Weather forecasting, cyclone warnings, fisheries, tele-education, and telemedicine
- Highlighted missions
- Chandrayaan-1, Mangalyaan, Chandrayaan-3, and Aditya-L1
- Student advice
- Build strong foundations in basic subjects and pursue research and innovation