The presentation on “AI INSPIRED (Innovation of Space Performance through Intelligent Resilient Engine Development) Opportunities in Space” was made by Mr. Vinod Kumar, Director, Advancement Directorate, Indian National Space Propulsion and Accreditation Center (IN-SPACe).
According to a statement from IN-SPACe, the financial support will be provided as a grant under the IN-SPACe Seed Fund Scheme.
“We will support selected organizations through proposal development, access to resources, mentorship, skills and solution-building support. We are looking at how non-governmental organizations can leverage this opportunity to develop solutions that serve national priorities in the long term,” Kumar said.
The AI INSPIRED Opportunities in Space Sector program is designed to support the integration of AI with space exploration and applications, with total expenditure of up to Rs 6 billion and up to Rs 10 billion for each selected grantee.
“Up to six grant recipients will be selected and each will be eligible for grant support of up to Rs 1,000 crore to advance their projects,” Kumar said.
IN-SPACe seeks proposals that apply AI across key areas of space activities, including intelligent onboard and on-orbit systems, AI-enabled use of space-derived data for Earth-based applications, and technology-driven approaches to improve efficiency, reliability, and access in space operations. The initiative aims to foster practical and impactful innovations that connect AI capabilities with space technologies and downstream use cases.
Applications are being solicited from space startups and micro and small-scale industries working on innovative AI-based solutions related to the space sector across three tracks: In-Orbit Edge Intelligence, Space for Earth Intelligence and Smart Access to Space, the statement said.
