Dr. K. Kasturirangan, former ISRO Chairman, has passed away.
He began his career as an X-ray astronomer and made significant contributions to science, technology, and education in India.
During his tenure at ISRO (1994–2003), India's space programme moved from the experimental stage to fully operational missions in earth observation, communication, and satellite launching.
Under his leadership, ISRO entered commercial space, leasing satellite transponders for global broadcasts, which helped bring cable TV in Indian homes and spread Indian content to 47 countries.
He led the launch of thematic space missions like
EDUSAT (education),
INSATs/GSATs (telemedicine and communication),
RESOURCESAT (resource monitoring),
CARTOSAT (mapping), and
Chandrayaan-1 (moon mission).
He promoted “Space for Society”, helping Indian government departments use satellite data for farming, urban planning, water, forestry, and education through systems like the National Natural Resource Management System (NNRMS).
Under his guidance, PSLV and GSLV launch vehicles became fully operational, placing India among advanced space nations.
His 1999 lecture on the moon mission sparked the idea for Chandrayaan-1, which was officially announced in 2003 by PM Vajpayee.
He also selected key team members for this project.
Beyond ISRO, he played a big role in shaping the National Education Policy 2020, served in the Rajya Sabha, and led the Karnataka Knowledge Commission — showing his lifelong dedication to national progress.
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