Former ISRO chairman A.S. Kiran Kumar said on October 1, 2026, that AI, machine learning, and robotics will transform space exploration. He noted that space is now the fourth frontier, offering huge economic opportunities. He added, "AI would assist rather than replace scientists," while urging students to focus on innovation.
Artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and robotics would fundamentally transform space exploration, creating new opportunities for students, startups and private companies, former Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairman A.S. Kiran Kumar said on Thursday (October 1, 2026).
Recalling India’s space journey, he credited Dr. Vikram Sarabhai’s vision for laying the foundation of the country’s space programme. Despite being denied access to advanced technology, India developed indigenous capabilities, progressing from SLV and ASLV to PSLV, he said.
He recalled major milestones, including Chandrayaan-1’s discovery of water molecules on the Moon, Mangalyaan’s successful first-attempt Mars mission, Chandrayaan-3’s lunar landing and Aditya-L1’s solar mission.
Dr. Kiran Kumar said space had emerged as the “fourth frontier” after land, oceans and air, offering a huge economic opportunity.
He said AI was already being used for satellite data analysis, autonomous navigation, robotics, disaster management and predictive maintenance. AI, he said, would assist rather than replace scientists.
He urged students to focus on fundamentals, research and innovation and help India strengthen its position in the global space sector.