The Indian Space and Research Organization (ISRO) has initiated a capacity-building programme known as UNNATI (UNispace Nanosatellite Assembly & Training by ISRO). The primary aim of this initiative is to offer budding participants from developing nations an opportunity to fortify their abilities in the assembly, integration, and testing of nanosatellites. The program also serves to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the first-ever United Nations Conference on the Exploration and Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UNISPACE+50).
The UNNATI Programme
Under the stewardship of U.R. Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), the UNNATI programme’s curriculum includes an intensive three-year course divided into three batches. The programme aims to provide knowledge and training to 90 officials from 45 different countries. The curriculum features a theoretical coursework covering essential aspects of nanosatellite, including its definition, utility, design drivers, the laws governing its impact on space debris, and reliability & quality assurance protocols. Furthermore, it incorporates hands-on exercises where participants learn the practicalities involved in the assembly, integration, and testing of nanosatellites.
The programme was inaugurated with the first batch starting on January 17, 2019. It comprised of 30 dedicated participants from an array of 17 countries such as Algeria, Argentina, Azerbaijan, Bhutan, Brazil, Chile, Egypt, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Mexico, Mongolia, Morocco, Myanmar, Oman, Panama, and Portugal.
United Nations Conference on the Exploration and Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UNISPACE)
UNISPACE, a global UN conference series on outer space, has been at the forefront of propagating the peaceful uses of outer space. This summit has transpired as three significant conferences, each focusing on a unique theme concerning outer space.
| Conference | Date | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| UNISPACE I | 14 to 27 August 1968 | Raising awareness of the vast potential of space benefits for all humankind |
| UNISPACE II | 9 to 21 August 1982 | Addressed concerns of maintaining outer space for peaceful purposes and preventing an arms race in outer space |
| UNISPACE III | 19 to 30 July 1999 | Created a blueprint for the peaceful uses of outer space in the 21st century |
The First UNISPACE Conference
The inaugural UNISPACE I, held from August 14 through 27, 1968, was dedicated to spreading awareness about the immense potential the exploration of space holds for humanity. On the other hand, UNISPACE II, which transpired from August 9 to 21, 1982, confronted the issue of maintaining the sanctity of outer space as a domain for peaceful activities and preventing its militarization. Lastly, UNISPACE III, conducted between July 19 and 30, 1999, laid down a strategic roadmap for harnessing the tranquil uses of outer space in the 21st century.