Karnataka Launches First State-Level Centre of Excellence for Space Technology in Bengaluru

Bengaluru May 1 2026

: In a major boost to India’s deeptech and space innovation ecosystem, Karnataka today inaugurated the country’s first state-level Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Space Technology at the Aerospace Park in Bengaluru, supported by the Department of IT, BT and S&T. 

The initiative marks a significant milestone in strengthening India’s position in the global space economy, with Karnataka once again positioning itself at the core of the nation’s space ambitions. Officials said the CoE will act as a strategic hub to integrate research, industry collaboration, startup support, and advanced training in space technology.

The CoE will focus on both upstream and downstream space segments, aligning with the state’s broader “Deeptech Decade Program.” The initiative aims to accelerate innovation in areas such as space biotech, microgravity research, satellite applications, and next-generation aerospace solutions.

 During the inaugural event, Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged between the CoE and key partners including Dassault Systèmes, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), ABLE, Helogen Corporation, and IdeaBaaz. These collaborations are expected to strengthen R&D, build talent pipelines, and support startups through training, visibility, and market access.

Speaking at the event, the leadership highlighted that Karnataka already has the ecosystem needed for global leadership in space technology—strong institutions, skilled talent, supportive policy frameworks, and growing private sector participation. The new CoE is expected to unify these strengths into a single coordinated innovation platform.

Officials added that the Centre will also act as a launchpad for startups and deeptech companies working in aerospace and allied sectors, reinforcing Bengaluru’s reputation as India’s “space tech capital” and a rising global hub for innovation in advanced technologies.