Union Budget 2026 Boosts India’s Ground-Based Astronomy Infrastructure

Budget 2026 Expands India’s Astronomy Footprint

The Union Budget 2026–27 has announced a significant expansion of India’s ground-based astronomy infrastructure, with four major facilities planned across Ladakh and southern India. Presenting the Budget, Nirmala Sitharaman said the initiatives would enhance India’s strengths in solar physics, deep-space observation and science outreach.

Indian Institute of Astrophysics as the Nodal Agency

All projects will be implemented by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics . The package includes two new national-class telescopes, an upgrade of an existing Himalayan observatory, and a planetarium-cum-training centre, marking one of the largest recent public investments in Indian astronomy.

New Solar and Optical Telescopes in Ladakh

A National Large Solar Telescope (NLST) will be established near Pangong Lake in Ladakh. As a two-metre class optical and near-infrared facility, it will focus on solar magnetic fields, flares and coronal mass ejections, complementing space-based solar observations by Indian Space Research Organisation missions such as Aditya-L1.

Alongside it, a National Large Optical–Infrared Telescope (NLOT) , planned as a 10–12 metre class instrument, will enable cutting-edge research on distant galaxies, star formation and exoplanets. Both telescopes will be located in the Hanle region, globally known for clear skies, low humidity and minimal light pollution.

Upgrade of the Himalayan Chandra Telescope

The Budget also proposes a major upgrade of the Himalayan Chandra Telescope , operational in Hanle since 2000. The enhancement will expand its scientific reach in areas such as variable stars, supernovae and active galactic nuclei, consolidating Ladakh’s role as India’s primary hub for optical astronomy.

Important Facts for Exams

• Indian Institute of Astrophysics is the implementing agency for all projects

• National Large Solar Telescope will study solar activity and space weather

• National Large Optical–Infrared Telescope will be India’s largest of its kind

• Hanle region in Ladakh offers ideal astronomical observing conditions

Cosmos-2 Planetarium for Science Outreach

Beyond research, the Budget announced Cosmos-2 , a planetarium and training centre to be built in Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh. Designed with advanced digital projection and interactive exhibits, it will complement the Cosmos-1 LED Dome planetarium under development in Mysuru. Together, these initiatives reflect a dual strategy—advancing frontier research while expanding public engagement and education in astronomy.