Bengaluru Hosts BRICS Heads of Space Agencies (HOSA) Meeting 2026

Why in News?

Bengaluru is hosting the BRICS Heads of Space Agencies (HOSA) Meeting 2026 on 23–24 June 2026. As the chair of BRICS in 2026, India is leading discussions on space cooperation, sustainability, innovation, and governance with representatives from all 11 BRICS member countries. The meeting highlights India’s growing role in global space diplomacy and international space governance.

BRICS Space Cooperation: Expanding Global Collaboration

BRICS, originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. The Bengaluru meeting brings together heads and senior officials of the national space agencies from these member nations.

Significance of BRICS in the Space Sector

The BRICS platform has emerged as an important mechanism for promoting cooperation in satellite applications, remote sensing, space technology, and sustainable use of outer space. Collaboration among member countries is expected to enhance scientific research, disaster management capabilities, and space-based services.

Theme and Key Agenda of HOSA 2026

The theme of the meeting is:

“Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”

The discussions focus on:

• Space sustainability and responsible use of outer space
• Sustainable space operations
• Governance frameworks for debris-free missions
• Strengthening international cooperation in space activities
• Amendments to the BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation (RSSC) Agreement
• Finalization of the Terms of Reference for the proposed BRICS Space Council

BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation (RSSC)

The RSSC is a cooperative framework among BRICS space agencies that facilitates the sharing of remote sensing satellite data for environmental monitoring, disaster management, agriculture, and climate-related applications.

India’s Space Ecosystem and the Role of IN-SPACe

The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) is showcasing India’s rapidly growing space-tech ecosystem during the event. The programme includes presentations by private space startups and industry visits, highlighting India’s commitment to public-private partnership in the space sector.

The initiative aligns with India’s efforts to promote innovation, commercialization, and global collaboration in the emerging space economy.

Important Facts for UPSC, UPPSC & Other Competitive Exams

• Bengaluru is hosting the BRICS Heads of Space Agencies (HOSA) Meeting 2026.
• India is the BRICS Chair for 2026.
• BRICS now consists of 11 member countries.
• The meeting theme is “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”.
• RSSC stands for BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation.
• IN-SPACe is the regulatory and promotional body for private participation in India’s space sector.
• Dr. Jitendra Singh is the Union Minister of State in the Department of Space.