Confident of making Indian Space Station a launching point for lunar exploration: ISRO chief
Dr. S. Somanath, Chairman of ISRO, expressed confidence in transforming the Bhartiya Antriksh Space Station into a launching point for lunar exploration, leveraging the agency’s advancements in lander technology. He shared these insights during the Sardar Patel Memorial Lecture 2024, hosted by Akashvani at Rang Bhawan in New Delhi.
In his address, titled “Indian Space Odyssey: In Search of New Frontiers,” Dr. Somanath outlined India’s Space Vision 2047, emphasizing the goal of landing an Indian astronaut on the Moon. He noted, “ISRO has made significant improvements in lander technology,” introducing the concept of the space station as a base for future lunar missions. He also discussed the development of reusable rockets and ambitious plans for exploring Venus, focusing on its orbit, surface, and subsurface after successful missions to the Moon and Mars.
Beyond exploration, Dr. Somanath highlighted ISRO’s commitment to addressing national needs in natural resource management, satellite communication, and navigation. Since its inception, ISRO has developed indigenous capabilities in building satellites, space transportation systems, and ground support infrastructure.
He praised India’s space journey as a reflection of the nation’s indomitable spirit and dedication to using space technology for the betterment of humanity, stating that the country’s space program aims to inspire a future where space technology contributes to a safer and improved world.
The lecture was attended by over 600 college students and organized by Prasar Bharati, India’s public service broadcaster. This annual lecture series commemorates the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhai Patel, the Iron Man of India, and began in 1955 with an inaugural address by Shri C. Rajagopalachari.
