Space Traffic Rises: ISRO Performs Record 140 Collision-Avoidance Manoeuvres in 2025
In another quiet yet historic achievement, the country’s space agency, Indian Space Research Organisation, has conducted an impressive 140 collision avoidance manoeuvres (CAMs) in 2025, the highest it has ever done in its history.
This fact was disclosed in the recently released space situational report, which highlights that space has become increasingly congested, requiring satellites to be navigated in real-time for survival.
Why ISRO Had to Act So Frequently
A collision avoidance maneuver can be compared to dodging a vehicle to prevent an accident; however, in outer space, it is much more complex. Satellites require the use of onboard thrusters to move out of the way to prevent collisions with space debris or other satellites.
As per data from 2025, over 1.5 lakh (150,000) collision warnings were issued for Indian satellites, which was primarily due to international tracking systems.
This is quite a huge figure that clearly states why there was such frequent intervention by ISRO.
Number of CAMs carried out in 2025: 140 (record high)
Number of changes made to existing maneuver plans mid-course: 82
Number of maneuvers done throughout the year: Thousands
The trend shows that there was an increase from a single maneuver in 2010 to 140 in 2025.
Key Missions That Needed Protection
Here are some of the Indian space ventures which required specific attention:
NISAR mission (in collaboration with NASA) was to have a dedicated avoidance maneuver
Chandrayaan-2 orbiter needed two course corrections
Both LEO and GEO satellites had to be actively managed
These maneuvers are not routine; they use up fuel and reduce a satellite’s life span. But they cannot be ignored as a clash between satellites can destroy a multi-crore venture instantly.
The Bigger Problem: Space Is Getting Crowded
Behind this record lies a much larger issue. The number of satellites and debris objects in orbit has exploded:
- Thousands of new satellites launched in 2025 alone
- Mega-constellations (like global internet satellites) adding traffic
- Debris from past missions increasing collision risk
ISRO’s own assessment highlights that orbital congestion is now one of the biggest threats to space operations globally.
Even a tiny fragment of debris, travelling at thousands of km/h, can destroy an operational satellite.
How ISRO Is Managing the Risk
To deal with this rising threat, ISRO relies on:
- Continuous tracking of space objects
- Real-time risk analysis before manoeuvres
- Adjusting satellite orbits instead of always performing separate CAMs
- Dedicated systems like its space situational awareness programs
The agency is also pushing for stronger global space traffic management rules, as no single country can control orbital congestion alone.
Why This Matters for the Future
The record 140 manoeuvres aren’t just a statistic—they’re a warning.
As more countries and private companies launch satellites, space could become as congested as Earth’s busiest highways. Without better coordination, the risk of a major collision—or even a cascading debris disaster—will only grow.
For India, the takeaway is clear: protecting space assets is no longer just about launching satellites—it’s about actively defending them every single day in orbit..
Disclaimer
This article is based on publicly available reports and official data released by ISRO and credible news sources. It is intended for informational purposes only.
