Chandrayaan Missions Ignite Student Interest in Space: Minister

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Chandrayaan Missions Ignite Student Interest in Space: Minister

Synopsis

The Chandrayaan missions have significantly piqued student interest in space science and astronomy, according to Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh. The Minister emphasized the importance of space technology awareness and highlighted various outreach programs by ISRO aimed at inspiring the younger generation.

Key Takeaways

  • Chandrayaan-3 achieved a soft landing on the Moon's South Pole.
  • ISRO's outreach programs engage thousands of students.
  • The YUVIKA program saw significant registrations from students.
  • Space technologies impact various sectors positively.
  • ISRO collaborates with educational institutions for awareness.

New Delhi, March 19 (NationPress) The remarkable achievements of the Chandrayaan missions have ignited a profound sense of curiosity and enthusiasm among students regarding space science and astronomy, stated the Union Minister of State for the Department of Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh, during a parliamentary session on Wednesday.

In a written response in the Lok Sabha, the Minister of State highlighted that the remarkable accomplishments of ISRO's lunar exploration missions have drawn significant interest from individuals across the nation.

The Chandrayaan-3 mission was a historic success, positioning India as the first country globally to achieve a soft landing at the Moon's South Pole.

India also became the fourth nation, following the former USSR (now Russia), the United States, and China, to accomplish a soft landing on the lunar surface.

“The triumphs of the Chandrayaan missions have profoundly inspired and motivated students nationwide. The accomplishments of India's lunar exploration initiatives have generated substantial curiosity and interest among students in space science and astronomy,” Singh remarked.

“Fostering awareness and promoting the use of space technologies can greatly influence the social and economic aspects of everyday life.

“Applications of space-based technologies in fields like agriculture, disaster management, weather forecasting, communication, navigation, and remote sensing enhance livelihoods, improve resource management, and boost connectivity, thus driving overall national progress,” he added.

As part of their awareness-building efforts, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) consistently conducts various outreach initiatives for students and the general populace, collaborating with educational institutions.

He enumerated several outreach activities, such as exhibitions, lectures, student workshops, online courses, and special initiatives like the "Young Scientist Programme (YUVIKA)" and "Space on Wheels".

ISRO has introduced numerous educational outreach programs across different states, including Uttar Pradesh, to motivate and educate students about space science and technology.

Singh reported that the YUVIKA program attracted over 700 student registrations for its 2024 edition and more than 800 registrations in 2023 from Uttar Pradesh.

Through another initiative, Space Tutors registered in Uttar Pradesh, ISRO has interacted with over 5,000 students.

Additionally, the Space on Wheels bus has reached around 10,000 students and general public members in Uttar Pradesh, Singh noted.