Software development at ISRO has always been an internal responsibility, driven by its own scientists and engineers across domains — from environmental science to physics, computer science and more. “We don’t outsource these critical software systems because the deep integration between science, technology and applications requires intimate domain understanding,” said Dr S Somanath, Former Director of ISRO.
Speaking at an event organised by IIM-Bengaluru, Dr Somanath elaborated on the evolution of software product management and development for space programmes, highlighting the shift from environmentally focused missions to commercially operated systems.
“Every piece of software, whether for satellite operations, data analysis or mission simulations, is built in-house to ensure accuracy, security and scientific rigour. Over the years, we have developed complex software systems for geospatial data portals, disaster management platforms and climate monitoring tools — all serving governments, researchers and the public,” Dr Somanath said.
He added, “Our journey in software product development isn’t just about coding; it’s about translating raw scientific data into actionable intelligence. Now, we are also focused on commercialising some of these tools, making them available to Indian institutions and industries to foster innovation across sectors.”
Dr Somanath also said, “I believe India‘s future in space, technology and sustainable development will be powered by a strong foundation in software excellence, developed at scale and refined through continuous learning and collaboration.”
Participating in the programme, Wg Cdr Rakesh Sharma (Retd), former IAF officer and India’s first astronaut, reminisced about his journey into space. He vividly described, “Forty years ago, when I went to space, it wasn’t just about floating in zero gravity or looking at Earth from above. It was a moment of realisation — how small and fragile our planet is, hanging there in the vastness of space.”
He said, “From that vantage point, you don’t see borders or countries; you see one Earth, one home. And yet, when you return, you see how we have drawn lines across this beautiful planet, dividing ourselves into nations, groups and conflicts. It made me realise how precious cooperation is — not just between astronauts on a mission, but between nations, people and communities.”
Speaking about global challenges, he said, “The world is changing faster than ever before — technology, climate, geopolitics — and if we don’t learn to see our planet the way I saw it, as a single entity, we risk losing the only home we’ve ever known. Space is no longer just about exploration — it’s about survival. The future of humanity depends not on who owns space, but on how we share it, collaborate and protect the Earth itself.”
When asked about takeaways for the younger generation, he said, “When I was in the Air Force, I started from very simple beginnings. What I learned is — anything that looks difficult from the outside, don’t step back. When you jump into it, you realise things are never as hard as they seem.”
