Kasturirangan’s Impact

by

  • Death of Dr. K. Kasturirangan: Former ISRO chairman (1994-2003) passed away in Bengaluru.

  • Leadership at ISRO:

    • Oversaw the development of Chandrayaan-1, India’s first lunar mission.
    • Operationalized key satellite series: IRS, INSAT.
    • Launched PSLV and GSLV.
    • Project Director for BHASKARA-I & II (experimental earth observation satellites).

  • Remote Sensing and National Development:

    • Key role in National Natural Resource Management System (NNRMS) for satellite-based services (agriculture, water, forestry, health).
    • Expanded India’s remote sensing program. IRS-1C and IRS-1D provided high-resolution data.

  • Pioneering Space Applications: Initiated thematic space missions like EDUSAT, INSAT/GSAT, OCEANSAT, and CARTOSAT for social and economic development.

    • Supported the development of multi-wavelength astronomy mission, AstroSat.

  • Policy Contributions:

    • Rajya Sabha member, Planning Commission member.
    • Chaired the committee that drafted the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
    • Chaired the committee for reviewing the Western Ghats Ecology report, recommending 37% be declared ESA.

  • Recognition and Awards: Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, and international recognition.

  • Transformative Impact: Shaped India’s space ambitions, educational framework, and environmental conservation efforts. His work inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in science.