How Isro is trying to rebrand itself as approachable

When the Indian Space Research Organisation’s Chandrayaan-3 mission landed on the moon, more than 8 million people tuned in for the event’s YouTube live-stream—a record for the site. There was hesitation in talking about its missions and somewhat of a culture of secrecy,” said Namrata Goswami, a space policy expert and professor at the Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University. Many scientists initially worried about job security and Isro’s relevance after opening the sector to private industry, said seven senior scientists, who did not wish to be named. “He wants space to do what India has been able to do with IT,” a person familiar with discussions between the prime minister’s office and the industry said. Isro will focus on exploration and new science, while three different bodies—the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre, NewSpace India Limited and the Indian Space Association —will interact with the private sector, negotiate launches and boost business.