As of now, only four entities have independently launched and operated space stations:

As of now, only four entities have independently launched and operated space stations:

1. Russia (Soviet Union) – Salyut, Mir

2. United States – Skylab

3. China – Tiangong space station (Currently operational)

4. International Space Station (ISS) – A collaboration of NASA (USA), Roscosmos (Russia), JAXA (Japan), ESA (Europe), and CSA (Canada)

India’s Planned Space Station

ISRO is working on an Indian Space Station (Bharatiya Antariksha Station), worth ₹10,000 crores ($1.2 billion), targeted for 2035.

It will be a 20-tonne modular station, expected to support long-term human space missions.

This is part of India’s Gaganyaan program, which aims to send Indian astronauts into space by 2025.

Why Global Collaboration is Necessary for Space Stations?

1. High Costs – The ISS cost over $150 billion, requiring shared funding.

2. Technology Sharing – Space stations require advanced life support, radiation shielding, and docking systems.

3. Sustainability & Logistics – Frequent supply missions from multiple nations ensure smooth operations.

4. Global Scientific Research – Experiments on microgravity, space medicine, and deep space exploration benefit all of humanity.

5. Geopolitical Stability – Collaboration fosters peaceful international relations and space diplomacy.

Future Space Station Collaboration

The ISS is set to retire by 2030, pushing nations to seek alternatives.

NASA’s Lunar Gateway (part of Artemis program) will support missions to the Moon and Mars.

China’s Tiangong is expanding, and India’s space station can benefit from international partnerships.

Private companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin are also developing commercial space habitats.

For long-term sustainability, a united global effort is essential to create permanent human habitats in space, reducing dependence on Earth and advancing interplanetary exploration.