Our Bureau
New Delhi
India celebrated its inaugural National Space Day on August 23, 2024, a significant occasion that commemorates the successful landing of the Chandrayaan-3 mission one year ago. This historic event marked India as the fourth country to achieve a lunar landing and the first to reach the Moon’s southern polar region, highlighting the nation’s growing prowess in space exploration.
National Space Day was officially declared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to honor the remarkable achievement of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and to inspire future generations in the fields of science and technology. The day is themed “Touching Lives while Touching the Moon: India’s Space Saga,” reflecting the societal benefits of space exploration and the transformative impact of space technology on everyday life.
The main celebrations took place at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, featuring a two-day event filled with high-profile sessions, interactive exhibitions, and significant announcements related to India’s space achievements. The events were streamed live on ISRO’s official website and YouTube channel, allowing widespread participation from across the country and beyond.
In addition to the central event, ISRO has launched the “Space on Wheels” initiative, which involves mobile exhibitions that will travel to universities and colleges across India. This program aims to educate students about ISRO’s activities and inspire them to pursue careers in space science and technology. Interactive quizzes and competitions are also being organized to engage young minds and foster a deeper interest in space exploration.
The Chandrayaan-3 mission, launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, achieved a soft landing of the Vikram Lander on the Moon at 6:04 PM on August 23, 2023. Accompanied by the Pragyaan Rover, this mission not only demonstrated India’s advanced capabilities in space technology but also underscored the importance of international collaboration in space exploration. The landing site was named ‘Shiv Shakti,’ symbolizing India’s commitment to harnessing space for the benefit of humanity.
The National Space Day serves as a reminder of the endless possibilities that lie ahead for India’s space endeavors. ISRO Chairman S. Somanath has emphasized that the government’s support and visionary leadership have been pivotal in advancing the nation’s space program. The ongoing projects and initiatives aim to strengthen India’s position in the global space arena while inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers.
