The Biden administration is making changes to its rules about exporting technology related to missiles. This update will help American companies work more closely with Indian companies in the space sector. Jon Finer, the Principal Deputy National Security Advisor, mentioned that these new rules will break down obstacles that make it hard for businesses to work together.
Recently, Finer, along with other officials, visited Houston to meet Indian astronauts training for a mission at NASA. They are preparing to work together on the International Space Station next year.
The Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) was created in 1987 to prevent missile technology from spreading. India became a part of this group in 2016. With the new export rules, US companies will find it easier to partner with Indian firms.
India and the US have been making great progress in their space programs, and increasing collaboration is seen as beneficial for both countries. The Biden administration launched an initiative called the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (ICET) to promote commercial space cooperation.
Chirag Parikh, a member of the National Space Council, explained that the US and India already have a strong history of working together in space, especially in earth sciences. India has recently reached impressive milestones, such as landing a probe on the Moon with its Chandrayaan-3 mission.
In June 2023, Prime Minister Modi and President Biden talked about working together in human space flight and commercial ventures. The goal is to lower barriers for cooperation between industries.
Next year, a new satellite developed by NASA and the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) will be launched from India. This satellite will help us monitor the Earth to handle climate change. Parikh mentioned that there are many possibilities for US-India cooperation in different areas, even for national security.
A key goal is to include Indian astronauts in US missions, and there’s enthusiasm from Indian astronauts about teaming up with the US and other global partners. They are eager to explore the Moon and beyond.
The US is also helping India develop its own astronaut training program. This partnership will allow them to build their own team of astronauts, ensuring their participation in the cool space missions ahead!
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