Produced by: Tarun Mishra
Designed by: Mohsin Shaikh
S. Somanath, the Chairman of ISRO, shared that experts from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) expressed a desire to collaborate with India and acquire its space technology. Their interest was sparked as they observed the progress ISRO made during the development of the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft
Speaking at an event organised by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam's Foundation in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, Somanath delivered a speech focusing on India's rapidly expanding capabilities in the field of space exploration
S. Somanath emphasised India's ability to manufacture cutting-edge devices and rockets. He highlighted the nation's emerging prominence in the space sector and credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for fostering a supportive environment for space-related endeavours
During the development of Chandrayaan-3, ISRO welcomed approximately 5-6 experts from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). This collaborative exchange allowed both organisations to share insights and expertise regarding the spacecraft's development
The NASA experts were particularly impressed with the cost-effectiveness and technological sophistication of the scientific instruments used in Chandrayaan-3. Their admiration led to inquiries about the possibility of procuring these instruments from India
S. Somanath celebrated India's growing capabilities in equipment and rocket manufacturing, underlining the significance of India's open space sector, which is now accessible to private players as well
On August 23, Chandrayaan-3's lander successfully achieved a historic lunar landing near the Moon's south pole. This achievement marked India as the fourth country in the world to accomplish such a feat, following the United States, China, and the former Soviet Union. It also made India the first country to land on the South Pole of Moon
S. Somanath encouraged aspiring space enthusiasts to participate in India's growing space industry. He cited notable startups like Agnikul in Chennai and Skyroot in Hyderabad, which are actively engaged in the development of rockets and satellites
S. Somanath invoked the wisdom of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, encouraging the audience to dream while awake and aspire to make meaningful contributions to the field of space exploration
Concluding his address, the ISRO Chief underscored India's potential to become a powerful nation in technology. He stressed the importance of actively participating in nation-building and explained how technology plays a crucial role in garnering international respect and influence