India Tightens Space Re-entry Rules, Mandates IN-SPACe Approval and Strict Safety Standards

India has introduced a comprehensive regulatory framework governing the planned re-entry of space objects, requiring private space operators to ensure that the risk of casualties to the public remains below one in 10,000 for every mission.

The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), the country's single-window agency for authorising private space activities, has issued the new 'Norms, Guidelines and Procedures for Implementation of Indian Space Policy-2023 in respect of Authorisation for Undertaking Planned Re-entry of Space Objects.' The guidelines, issued on July 23 and made public on Wednesday, establish safety, liability and compliance requirements for controlled re-entry operations.

Under the new framework, all Indian entities planning the controlled re-entry of a space object whether the operation takes place within or outside Indian territory must obtain prior authorisation from IN-SPACe. The rules also stipulate that non-Indian entities seeking to conduct a planned re-entry within Indian territory can do so only through an Indian-incorporated entity.

The guidelines place the entire responsibility for re-entry operations on the operator, making it clear that such activities must be undertaken at the company's own risk and must not expose the Government of India to any legal or financial liability.

To safeguard against potential claims, companies may be required to obtain adequate insurance coverage, including mandatory third-party liability insurance, if prescribed by IN-SPACe during the authorisation process.

The framework also introduces disclosure requirements for mission planning. Companies intending to carry out a planned re-entry must declare the intent at the time of seeking mission authorisation. If the decision to undertake a controlled re-entry is made after the launch of the space object, the operator must submit a separate application and obtain approval at least six months before the planned manoeuvre.

The new norms are aimed at strengthening public safety, improving regulatory oversight of India's growing private space sector, and aligning commercial space operations with international best practices as the country's space ecosystem continues to expand.