Tuesday, June 4, 2019
Biography of Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan:
Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan, often known as K. Kasturirangan, is an Indian space scientist and former chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Born on October 24, 1940, in Ernakulam, Kerala, India, he has played a crucial role in shaping India's space program and has contributed significantly to space research and education.
Education of Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan:
K. Kasturirangan obtained his Bachelor's degree in Science from Loyola College, Chennai. He later earned a Master's degree in Management from the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB). Subsequently, he pursued his Doctorate in Experimental High Energy Astronomy from the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Mumbai.
Early Career:
Kasturirangan began his career as a faculty member at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, where he made significant contributions to the field of space science. His research focused on high-energy X-ray and gamma-ray astronomy.
Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan's ISRO Career:
In 1972, Kasturirangan joined ISRO, where he played a key role in the development of India's satellite launch vehicle program. He contributed to the successful launch of India's first satellite, Aryabhata, in 1975. Over the years, he held various positions within ISRO, including Director of the Space Applications Center (SAC) and Director of ISRO Satellite Centre (ISAC).
In 1994, K. Kasturirangan was appointed as the Chairman of ISRO, succeeding U. R. Rao. During his tenure, ISRO achieved significant milestones, including the successful launch of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and the development of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). Under his leadership, India also launched the Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) in 2013, making India the first Asian nation to reach Martian orbit and the first nation in the world to do so in its maiden attempt.
Post-ISRO Career:
After his retirement from ISRO in 2003, K. Kasturirangan continued to contribute to science and education. He served as a member of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament, from 2003 to 2009.
Kasturirangan has been involved in various national and international scientific organizations. He served as the Chancellor of the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in New Delhi. He has been associated with several educational institutions and has contributed to the development of science and technology policies in India.
Awards and Honors to Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan:
K. Kasturirangan has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to space science and research. Some of the notable awards include the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and the prestigious Padma Vibhushan, which he received in 2000. He has also been elected as a Fellow of the Indian Academy of Sciences, Indian National Science Academy, and the Third World Academy of Sciences.
K. Kasturirangan's legacy is marked by his leadership in advancing India's capabilities in space exploration and satellite technology, as well as his contributions to the broader scientific community and education sector in the country.