Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is the national space agency of India, headquartered in Bengaluru, Karnataka. Established on August 15, 1969, ISRO has played a pivotal role in advancing space technology and space exploration in India. Here are some key points about ISRO:
History and Formation
- ISRO was founded under the Department of Space, which itself was established in 1972. It was preceded by the Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR), formed in 1962 by India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru.
- Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, often regarded as the father of the Indian space program, was instrumental in the formation of ISRO. His vision was to harness space technology for national development, particularly in agriculture, education, health, and disaster management.
- ISRO's first satellite, Aryabhata, was launched in 1975 from Baikonur Cosmodrome in the Soviet Union.
Major Achievements
- Launch Vehicle Development: ISRO has developed several indigenous launch vehicles including the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). The PSLV has become one of the most reliable launch vehicles globally, having successfully launched numerous satellites for both Indian and international clients.
- Chandrayaan Missions: ISRO achieved a significant milestone with the Chandrayaan-1 mission in 2008, which confirmed the presence of water molecules on the Moon. This was followed by Chandrayaan-2, although the lander failed to achieve a soft landing, the orbiter continues to provide valuable data.
- Mars Orbiter Mission: In 2014, ISRO successfully launched the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), making India the first Asian nation to reach Mars orbit and the first nation in the world to do so in its maiden attempt.
- Human Spaceflight: ISRO is currently working on the Gaganyaan program, aiming to send humans into space by 2022, marking India's entry into human spaceflight.
Facilities and Centers
Current Projects and Future Missions
References
See Also