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Didn’t have the Courage to Sit for IIT Entrance’: ISRO Chief S Somanath Earns PhD from IIT-Madras

News on Education 11 ArdorComm Media Group Didn’t have the Courage to Sit for IIT Entrance’: ISRO Chief S Somanath Earns PhD from IIT-Madras

S Somanath, the 60-year-old chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), received his PhD from IIT-Madras on Friday. Despite being the topper in the state for science, Somanath revealed, “I did not have the courage to write an entrance for IIT.” Speaking at the 61st convocation ceremony of IIT-Madras, Somanath, who was born in a village in Kerala, received his PhD degree for a thesis titled “Vibration Response Studies on Modified Hyper Elastic Material Models for Application in Aerospace Systems.” He expressed his deep connection to the topic, stating, “It is related to vibration isolators, which I started as an engineer in ISRO years ago. But this remained with me.” Somanath began his doctoral studies while working on the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III (GSLV Mk III) project. However, the demands of his work at ISRO forced him to put his studies on hold. He shared, “Since I was immersed in that work then, I couldn’t take forward my PhD. It is a real good fortune that I could complete it after having assumed the office of chairman of ISRO. It is really a great honour.” Under Somanath’s leadership, ISRO achieved significant milestones, including the Chandrayaan-3 mission, which made India the first country to land near the south pole of the Moon, and the launch of India’s first solar observatory, Aditya-L1. The degree was awarded to him by IIT-M Director Prof V Kamakoti and Dr Pawan Goenka, Chairman of the Board of Governors, IIT-M. The convocation ceremony at IIT-Madras was attended by 2,636 graduates, their families, and guests. Among the graduates were 764 B.Tech students, 277 Dual Degree B.Tech and M.Tech students, and 481 M.Tech students. The event also featured a speech by Mechanical Engineering student Dhananjay Balakrishnan, who highlighted the ethical responsibilities of engineers in the context of global conflicts. “There is a mass genocide going on in Palestine. People are dying in large numbers and there is no end in sight. Why should we bother by this, you may ask? Because STEM as a field in itself has historically been used to advance the ulterior motives of the imperial powers such as Israel,” he said.

ISRO’s Aditya-L1 Mission: India’s Solar Observatory Launches Successfully

News on Gov 2nd Sept 2023 ArdorComm Media Group ISRO’s Aditya-L1 Mission: India’s Solar Observatory Launches Successfully

In a historic leap for India’s space exploration endeavours, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved a remarkable milestone with the successful launch of the Aditya-L1 solar observatory. This mission marks India’s inaugural foray into dedicated solar research, as the spacecraft embarks on a groundbreaking journey to the Sun-Earth L1 point. With precise placement into its intended orbit, Aditya-L1 now sets its sights on unravelling the enigmas of our nearest star, promising groundbreaking insights into solar dynamics and their influence on space weather. This mission not only positions ISRO at the forefront of solar science but also holds immense potential for advancing our understanding of the solar system’s intricate workings and their implications for life on Earth. PSLV-C57/Aditya-L1 Mission: The launch of Aditya-L1 by PSLV-C57 is accomplished successfully. The vehicle has placed the satellite precisely into its intended orbit. India’s first solar observatory has begun its journey to the destination of Sun-Earth L1 point. — ISRO (@isro) September 2, 2023 Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the scientists and engineers at ISRO for the successful launch of India’s first Solar Mission, Aditya -L1. After the success of Chandrayaan-3, India continues its space journey. Congratulations to our scientists and engineers at @isro for the successful launch of India’s first Solar Mission, Aditya -L1. Our tireless scientific efforts will continue in order to develop better… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 2, 2023 Aditya-L1 will be India’s pioneering space-based mission focused on unravelling the mysteries of our nearest star, the Sun. This state-of-the-art spacecraft will be positioned in a halo orbit around the Lagrange point 1 (L1) of the Sun-Earth system, situated approximately 1.5 million kilometers from Earth. This unique orbit offers a significant advantage – uninterrupted views of the Sun, free from any eclipses or occultations. Consequently, Aditya-L1 will provide invaluable real-time observations of solar activities and their impact on space weather. The spacecraft is equipped with seven payloads designed to observe various layers of the Sun, including the photosphere, chromosphere, and the outermost layer, the corona. These payloads utilize electromagnetic, particle, and magnetic field detectors to gather data. Positioned at the Lagrange point L1, four of these payloads will directly observe the Sun, while the remaining three will conduct in-situ studies of particles and fields, offering crucial insights into the dynamics of solar activity within the interplanetary medium. The Aditya-L1 payloads are expected to deliver vital information on several key aspects, including the enigmatic problem of coronal heating, coronal mass ejections, pre-flare and flare activities, space weather dynamics, and the propagation of particles and fields in space. Science Objectives: The primary scientific objectives of the Aditya-L1 mission encompass: Solar Atmospheric Dynamics: Investigating the dynamics of the solar upper atmosphere, particularly the chromosphere and corona. Coronal Heating and Plasma Physics: Studying the mechanisms behind chromospheric and coronal heating, as well as the behavior of partially ionized plasma, initiation of coronal mass ejections, and solar flares. Particle Dynamics: Observing the in-situ particle and plasma environment to provide data for understanding particle dynamics originating from the Sun. Corona Heating Mechanism: Examining the physics of the solar corona and its heating mechanisms. Plasma Diagnostics: Providing diagnostics for coronal and coronal loop plasma, including temperature, velocity, and density measurements. Coronal Mass Ejections: Investigating the development, dynamics, and origins of coronal mass ejections (CMEs). Magnetic Field Studies: Studying magnetic field topology and measurements in the solar corona. Space Weather Drivers: Identifying the drivers for space weather, including the origin, composition, and dynamics of the solar wind. The launch of Aditya-L1 heralds a significant milestone in India’s space research efforts, positioning the country at the forefront of solar science and space weather forecasting. As Aditya-L1 embarks on its mission to unlock the secrets of the Sun, it promises to shed light on crucial aspects of our solar system, benefiting both scientific understanding and practical applications on Earth.

PM Modi Declares August 23 as ‘National Space Day’ After Chandrayaan-3’s Lunar Success

News on Gov 26th Aug 2023 ArdorComm Media Group PM Modi Declares August 23 as ‘National Space Day’ After Chandrayaan-3’s Lunar Success

In a momentous announcement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared August 23rd as ‘National Space Day,’ during his address to the accomplished scientists at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) command centre in Bengaluru. The significance of this date stems from the successful soft landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the Moon’s south pole, a remarkable achievement celebrated as a milestone in India’s space exploration journey. Prime Minister Modi expressed his admiration for the Chandrayaan-3 team and particularly lauded the contributions of women scientists who played a pivotal role in the mission’s success. He revealed that the precise spot on the lunar surface where Chandrayaan-3 touched down would be named ‘Shivshakti,’ serving as an inspiration for future generations to utilize science for the betterment of humanity. He also designated the location where its predecessor, Chandrayaan-2, had landed as the ‘Tiranga’ point. Highlighting the importance of advancements in science, technology, and space exploration, PM Modi emphasized that nations leading in these fields are scripting history. To encourage the youth’s involvement in science, technology, and space endeavours, he proclaimed August 23rd, the day of Chandrayaan-3’s lunar landing, as National Space Day. Modi celebrated the fact that India’s national pride now resides on the Moon, marking an unprecedented achievement. He commended the scientists for taking the ‘Make In India’ initiative to the lunar surface, underscoring the boost to indigenous production resulting from Chandrayaan-3’s success. Despite not being physically present during the Chandrayaan-3 landing, PM Modi virtually attended the event, congratulating ISRO chairman S Somanath and the entire team for their historic achievement in the lunar south pole region. Chandrayaan-3, a follow-up mission to Chandrayaan-2, aims to accomplish three key objectives: a safe and soft landing on the lunar surface, rover mobility on the Moon, and in-situ scientific experiments. Following its successful landing on August 23rd, the lander (Vikram) and rover (Pragyan) will conduct a series of experiments on the lunar surface over the next two weeks. On a significant note, Pragyan rover has already made its debut on the Moon, covering a distance of 8 meters. While Chandrayaan-2’s soft-landing attempt didn’t succeed, ISRO’s orbiter from that mission continues to provide valuable data. ISRO’s historic achievement positions India among the world’s top four nations to achieve a soft landing on the Moon’s surface, and notably, it’s the first country to reach the unexplored southern polar region of the Moon.

India Rejoices as Chandrayaan-3 Successfully Lands on Moon’s South Pole

96c949d5 9f22 4e65 a1cb 367c4815f3eb ArdorComm Media Group India Rejoices as Chandrayaan-3 Successfully Lands on Moon’s South Pole

In a monumental achievement for India’s space exploration endeavours, Chandrayaan-3, the third lunar mission by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), successfully executed a soft landing on the Moon’s south pole today at 6:04 PM local time. The world watched in awe as India became the first country to reach this challenging region of the lunar surface. Chandrayaan-3 Mission:'India🇮🇳,I reached my destinationand you too!': Chandrayaan-3 Chandrayaan-3 has successfullysoft-landed on the moon 🌖!. Congratulations, India🇮🇳!#Chandrayaan_3#Ch3 — ISRO (@isro) August 23, 2023 The historic event was accompanied by live telecasts and updates, building anticipation across the nation and around the globe. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the nation following the successful landing, stated, “No country has reached there (the South Pole of the moon) before. With the hard work of our scientists, we have reached there.” He hailed the achievement as a symbol of India’s progress and innovation. Leaders from various sectors and regions joined in congratulating ISRO and the nation on this remarkable feat. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath celebrated the momentous occasion, and sweets were distributed at the Embassy of India in the United States in honor of the Chandrayaan-3’s success. PM Modi, who was in South Africa for the BRICS Summit, connected to ISRO via video conferencing to witness the historic moment firsthand. The mood at ISRO’s Mission Operation Complex in Bengaluru was one of jubilation as the nation’s pride soared high. Chandrayaan-3’s journey to this point was marked by meticulous planning and unwavering dedication from the ISRO team. The spacecraft underwent rigorous checks, and the mission was on schedule as the lander, named Vikram, began its descent. The mission’s success was not without its challenges. Chandrayaan-3’s landing was a complex process that involved reducing its speed from over 6,000 km/hr to nearly zero, transitioning from horizontal to vertical orientation, and finally achieving a soft landing on the lunar surface. Dr. Anand, a senior scientific officer at Nehru Planetarium in Bengaluru, assured the public that all instruments on the lander were functioning as expected. He praised ISRO’s preparedness for the mission. Chandrayaan-3’s success reflects India’s commitment to space exploration and engineering technology. The mission opens new horizons for lunar research and cements India’s position in the elite group of nations capable of reaching the Moon’s surface. The achievement comes after lessons learned from Chandrayaan-2, where the lander’s connection was lost above 2 kilometers. ISRO’s dedication to improvement and determination to succeed have now borne fruit with Chandrayaan-3. As the nation celebrates this historic milestone, it marks the dawn of a new era in India’s space exploration endeavors, inspiring the world with its commitment to scientific progress and innovation.

India’s Chandrayaan-3 Moon Landing: A Bold Leap Towards Lunar Exploration

News on Gov 23rd Aug 2023 ArdorComm Media Group India’s Chandrayaan-3 Moon Landing: A Bold Leap Towards Lunar Exploration

In just a few hours, India’s Chandrayaan-3 is set to attempt a historic soft landing on the moon’s southern pole. If successful, India will join an elite group of countries, including the US, China, and the former Soviet Union, in achieving this remarkable feat. The critical moment for the mission lies in the final 15 to 20 minutes, during which the Vikram lander, carrying the rover Pragyan, will gently touch down. The excitement surrounding this lunar touchdown is palpable, with celebrations and prayers being held in anticipation. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will broadcast the landing live on its website, while DD National TV will begin its live coverage at 5:27 PM. The Chandrayaan-3 mission embarked on its journey from Sriharikota on July 14. The descent of the Vikram lander towards the lunar surface begins at a rapid velocity of 1.68 km per second. It then undergoes a deceleration process, but it’s still almost parallel to the moon’s surface. This phase, known as the rough braking phase, lasts for approximately 11 minutes. The critical transition to a vertical position relative to the moon’s surface marks the start of the fine braking phase. Any slight error in this delicate descent process could lead to a crash or damage to the spacecraft. A soft landing, in essence, involves a spacecraft descending and landing on the moon’s surface in a controlled manner without causing substantial harm to either the craft itself or its scientific instruments. However, there are significant challenges associated with achieving a soft landing, including overcoming high speeds and executing a precisely controlled descent. Chandrayaan-3 faces the daunting task of navigating these hurdles as it aims to make history on the lunar surface.

Chandrayaan-3 Marks Success with Final Lunar Orbital Manoeuvre, Gearing Up for Moon Landing on 23rd Aug

News on Gov 21st Aug 2023 ArdorComm Media Group Chandrayaan-3 Marks Success with Final Lunar Orbital Manoeuvre, Gearing Up for Moon Landing on 23rd Aug

 Chandrayaan-3 has completed its crucial final lunar orbital adjustment, marking a significant step in India’s moon exploration mission. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) closely monitored this key operation as they prepare for the spacecraft’s upcoming landing on the lunar surface, scheduled for Wednesday. The lander, Vikram, has positioned itself in an orbit with the closest point to the Moon at 25 kilometers and the farthest at 134 kilometers. This orbit sets the stage for an attempt at a soft landing in the uncharted south polar region of the Moon, a daring endeavour ISRO is eagerly pursuing. ISRO announced, “The second and final deboosting operation has successfully reduced the LM orbit to 25 km x 134 km. The module would undergo internal checks and await the sunrise at the designated landing site. The powered descent is expected to commence on August 23, 2023, around 1745 Hrs. IST,” through their official communication channel. Vikram, the lander, has been navigating its lunar orbit autonomously, making decisions on its functions as it descends. ISRO’s former chief, K Sivan, affirmed that the lander’s design remains unchanged from the Chandrayaan-2 mission, with all issues identified in the previous mission addressed. If the landing on Wednesday proves successful, India will join the exclusive group of countries that have accomplished this remarkable lunar feat. Earlier in the mission, the lander module separated from the propulsion module, which will continue orbiting Earth for an extended period to study Earth’s atmosphere and gather data on polarized light from clouds. This separation marked a crucial milestone. Upon reaching the lunar surface, Vikram will capture images of the Pragyaan rover, tasked with analyzing the Moon’s surface composition and searching for water. The rover’s operational lifespan on the lunar surface is equivalent to one lunar day, or approximately 14 Earth days. Chandrayaan-3 was launched into space aboard the LVM3 rocket on July 14 and entered lunar orbit on August 5, marking significant progress in India’s lunar exploration efforts. Meanwhile, Russia’s Luna-25 probe, on its way to the Moon, faced an “emergency” during a manoeuvre, potentially affecting its scheduled landing on the lunar south pole. The incident occurred as the probe was being transitioned to the pre-landing orbit, though it remains unclear whether this will impact the planned landing, slated for Monday, near the Boguslawsky crater. In a space endeavour that has been nearly 50 years in the making, Russia is closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a successful outcome for its historic lunar mission.