Dr K Kasturirangan

April 26, 2025

Dr K Kasturirangan, a celebrated figure in India’s space exploration, passed away at the age of 84 on April 25, 2025. He was instrumental in the success of India’s first lunar mission, Chandrayaan-1, and made contributions to education policy and scientific research. His legacy continues to inspire future generations in India and beyond.

Early Life and Education

Born on October 24, 1940, in Ernakulam, Kerala, Dr Kasturirangan completed his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Physics from Bombay University. He earned his Doctorate in Experimental High Energy Astronomy in 1971 from the Physical Research Laboratory in Ahmedabad. His academic pursuits laid the foundation for his illustrious career in astrophysics.

Leadership at ISRO

Dr Kasturirangan served as the chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) from 1994 to 2003. Under his leadership, ISRO achieved several milestones. He oversaw the operationalisation of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and the successful flight testing of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). His tenure marked a period of technological advancement for India’s space programme.

Chandrayaan-1 Mission

Chandrayaan-1, launched in 2008, was India’s first mission to the moon. Dr Kasturirangan proposed the mission in 1999, denoting its potential for scientific discovery. The mission successfully identified water molecules on the lunar surface, altering the understanding of the moon’s geology. This achievement established India as a key player in space exploration.

Contributions Beyond ISRO

After retiring from ISRO, Dr Kasturirangan was nominated to the Rajya Sabha in 2003 and later served on the Planning Commission. He chaired the committee that drafted the New Education Policy 2020, which aimed to reform and modernise India’s education system. He also contributed to sustainable development plans for the ecologically sensitive Western Ghats.

Awards

Dr Kasturirangan received numerous accolades for his contributions to science and education. He was awarded the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan, India’s prestigious civilian honours.

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