Introduction
In a momentous announcement, the Union cabinet declared August 23 as ‘National Space Day,’ commemorating the triumphant landing of Chandrayaan 3 on the moon’s enigmatic south pole. The resounding success of this mission has etched a remarkable chapter in India’s space odyssey, showcasing the nation’s prowess on the global stage.
Union Minister Anurag Thakur, during a briefing after the Cabinet meet, hailed the historic achievement of ISRO scientists who diligently worked on the Chandrayaan-3 mission. The establishment of ‘National Space Day’ not only acknowledges the nation’s accomplishments but also underscores the importance of scientific and technological advancements in today’s world.
The August 23 date resonates deeply, marking the day when the Chandrayaan-3 lander gracefully touched the lunar surface. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to the ISRO command center in Bengaluru on August 26, proclaimed the decision to celebrate this day as a testament to India’s commitment to fostering a culture of scientific exploration.
“In today’s era, the country which paces ahead in the field of science and technology will be charting history…To encourage our younger generation to get involved in the field of science and technology and space, we have decided that August 23, the day when our Chandrayaan-3 lander touched the moon, will be celebrated as National Space Day,” Prime Minister Modi expressed.
The prime minister’s personal engagement with ISRO scientists underlined his unwavering support for India’s space program. He hailed their dedication and hard work, especially in light of the challenges faced during the Chandrayaan-2 mission. Modi’s interaction with the scientists at the ISRO Telemetry Tracking and Command Network Mission Control Complex (ISTRAC) highlighted his appreciation for their extraordinary contributions.
A poignant aspect of this celebration is the recognition of the women scientists who played a pivotal role in Chandrayaan 3’s successful landing. The Union cabinet expressed its pride in their achievements, acknowledging their efforts as an inspiration for future generations of women scientists.
PM Modi visits Vikram Lander
Prime Minister Modi’s 2019 visit to watch the planned touch down of Chandrayaan-2’s ‘Vikram’ lander showcased his unwavering commitment to India’s space endeavors. Although the mission encountered a setback just moments before landing, his words of encouragement and appreciation have now come full circle with the triumphant landing of Chandrayaan 3.
In a heartfelt gesture, the prime minister announced that the site where Chandrayaan-2 left its mark on the lunar surface in 2019 would be known as the ‘Tiranga Point.’ This symbolic gesture not only honours the nation’s flag but also encapsulates the spirit of ‘Make in India,’ emphasising the nation’s determination to reach beyond Earth’s boundaries.
Conclusion
As India looks to the stars with ever-growing ambition, ‘National Space Day’ stands as a beacon of inspiration for the younger generation to embrace the world of science, technology, and space exploration. With visionary leadership and unyielding dedication, India’s space program continues to captivate the imagination of the nation and the world, promising new horizons and discoveries yet to come.
