Scientists from Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Kasaragod contribute to Chandrayaan-3's success

In an astounding feat of scientific prowess and dedication, India’s Chandrayaan-3 lander has successfully touched down on the unexplored southern pole of the Moon. This monumental achievement marks the first-ever human-made landing in this region, a historic milestone that has set the entire country abuzz with celebration and pride. Hundreds of scientists from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) have played pivotal roles in this remarkable accomplishment, with 11 scientists hailing from the Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Kasaragod districts, further enhancing the coastal region’s reputation as a hub of scientific excellence.

Two individuals from Kundapur, Akash Shetty and Ramesh Acharya, have brought glory to the taluk. Akash Shetty, an alumnus of New English School, Bhatkal, and Malnad College of Engineering, Hassan, joined ISRO in 2015. He holds the position of Project Manager in the Spacecraft Mechanism Group of Chandrayaan-3, and his expertise was also showcased during Chandrayaan-2 in 2019.

Ramesh Acharya, hailing from Keradi village, is a Technical Assistant in ISRO’s ISTRAC Division, Bangalore. ISTRAC plays a vital role in receiving and disseminating information from Chandrayaan-3 to the world. Ramesh expressed his jubilation by sharing how the successful landing prompted spontaneous celebrations and dances among the team.

Dharmasthala’s Paniyadi Vasudeva Rao, a senior scientist at ISRO, has significantly contributed to the project by meticulously preparing and testing the first stage L110-10 rockets responsible for transporting Chandrayaan’s satellites. With his team, he ensured that this crucial component was fabricated at HAL, Bengaluru, and then sent to ISRO’s Mahendragiri facility in Thiruvananthapuram. Vasudeva Rao, who completed his education at various renowned institutions, has served ISRO for an impressive 32 years and is set to retire in August 2024.

Sowbhagya Aithal, a young scientist at ISRO’s satellite center, has been working in the Chandrayaan-3 endeavor. Hailing from Udupi’s Saligrama Parampalli, Sowbhagya completed her education at esteemed institutions and has been ardently contributing to ISRO’s endeavors, including sharing her knowledge through scientific articles aimed at children.

Shivaprasad Karanth from Kanchana of Golithottu Village in Uppinangady,  a senior scientist at ISRO, has gradually risen through the ranks over his 24-year tenure. He played a role in the Chandrayaan-3 project and even secured a promotion equivalent to the Union Cabinet Secretary cadre. Radhakrishna Vatedka, a scientist from Puttur, has been contributing to ISRO’s advancements for eight years, specializing in instruments for exploring the Moon’s surface.

Krishnamohan Shanubhog, based in Kasaragod, has played a pivotal role in the propulsion required for satellite navigation in Chandrayaan-3. He has amassed a wealth of experience in the field and is now part of the country’s science community.

Three scientists from Sullia taluk, Shambhayya Kodapala, Venugopal Ubaradka, and Manasa Jayakumar, have excelled in various departments, showcasing the region’s exceptional talent.

Shambhayya K., a senior scientist, led the Liquid Propulsion System (LPS) department’s unit during the Chandrayaan mission. Venu Gopal started as a technical assistant and later rose to the position of scientist, contributing to the PCB designing department and digital structure department in Chandrayaan 3. Manasa Jayakumar, a research student at Mangalore University, contributed to crafting the Chandrayaan-3 satellite antenna.

Retire ISRO employee Subrahmanya Udupa E.G., an alumnus of Barakuru National Undergraduate College, contributed to the dynamics of Vikram Lander’s landing system. His dedication to Chandrayaan-2 and 3 is a testament to the unwavering commitment of scientists to India’s space endeavors.

This collective achievement of Indian scientists not only solidifies ISRO’s reputation on the global stage but also underscores the nation’s prowess in space exploration. The efforts of these scientists will undoubtedly inspire future generations to reach for the stars, furthering India’s legacy in space exploration.