“Space exploration is a force of nature unto itself that no other force in society can rival.”

-- Aisha Libranza Khan, IX-A, Kuwait Indian School

Sunday, January 14, 2024

India, a country known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse population, has made significant strides in the field of space exploration. Over the years, India has established itself as a prominent player in the global space industry, with notable achievements in satellite launches, lunar missions, and space research. This article explores India’s footprint on space and beyond, highlighting key milestones and contributions made by the country.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is the primary agency responsible for India’s space program. Established in 1969, ISRO has played a crucial role in shaping India’s presence in space exploration. It has successfully launched numerous satellites for communication, navigation, earth observation, and scientific research purposes. ISRO’s achievements include the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), Chandrayaan-1 lunar mission, and the development of indigenous launch vehicles like the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV).

Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM): India’s Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), also known as Mangalyaan, was launched by ISRO in November 2013. It marked India’s first interplanetary mission and made India the first Asian country to reach Mars orbit successfully. The MOM aimed to study the Martian atmosphere, climate, geology, and search for signs of life. This mission showcased India’s technological prowess and cost-effectiveness in space exploration.

The Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), also known as NavIC, is India’s indigenous navigation system. It consists of a constellation of satellites providing accurate positioning and timing services over the Indian region and neighboring countries. IRNSS enhances India’s self-reliance in satellite navigation and has applications in various sectors such as transportation, disaster management, and precision agriculture.

Chandrayaan-1 was India’s first lunar mission launched by ISRO in October 2008. It carried various scientific payloads to study the moon’s surface composition, mineralogy, and search for water ice deposits. Chandrayaan-1 also discovered evidence of water molecules on the moon’s surface, making significant contributions to lunar research. This mission solidified India’s position as a key player in lunar exploration.

Chandrayaan – 2 is the second lunar mission of India after the success of Chandrayaan 1. This mission was conducted for topographical researches and mineralogical studies to have a better understanding of the Moon’s origin and evolution. Chandrayaan 2 Mission was launched from the Satish Dhawan Space on July 22, 2019, by GSLV Mk III-M1. The main aim of Chandrayaan 2 was to trace the location and abundance of lunar water on the moon’s surface.

Chandrayaan-3 is India's lunar mission which has successfully soft landed on the Moon's surface on August 23rd, 2023. To mark the successful landing of Chandryaana 3, National space day will be celebrated each year on August 23rd. After Chandrayaan-1 and Chandrayaan-2, Chandrayaan 3 seeks to demonstrate India's technological prowess in advanced lunar exploration. Equipped with advanced instruments, Pragyaan rover conducted scientific studies, analysed lunar soil, and gathered crucial data for research. Chandrayaan-3 is a testament to India's commitment to space exploration and greater understanding of the Moon's mysteries.

“It soars high, elevating the dreams and ambitions of every Indian. This momentous achievement is a testament to our scientists' relentless dedication.”

Aisha Libranza Khan, IX-A, Kuwait Indian School