India issued the Norms, Guidelines and Procedures for Authorisation for Undertaking Planned Re-entry of Space Objects

India issued the Norms, Guidelines and Procedures for Authorisation for Undertaking Planned Re-entry of Space Objects

¨     India issued the Norms, Guidelines and Procedures for Authorisation for Undertaking Planned Re-entry of Space Objects on 23 July 2026.

¨     The framework was made public on 29–30 July 2026.

¨     It applies to the planned re-entry of space objects into Earth’s atmosphere by both Indian and foreign operators.

¨     The guidelines were issued by the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) under the Department of Space.

¨     Prior authorisation from IN-SPACe is mandatory for any planned re-entry undertaken by an Indian entity, whether inside or outside India.

¨     Foreign entities planning a re-entry within Indian territory must submit applications through an Indian-incorporated entity.

¨     The Indian entity is responsible for ensuring compliance with Indian laws and national security requirements.

¨     Private operators bear full liability for any damage caused by re-entering spacecraft or debris.

¨  The framework mandates adequate insurance coverage, including third-party liability insurance.

¨     Planned re-entry missions must ensure that the risk of human casualty remains below 1 in 10,000.

¨  Applicants must submit technical details, including spacecraft characteristics, mission objectives, de-orbit strategy, projected impact zones, and risk assessments.