Dr. K. Kasturirangan, the former chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and esteemed space scientist, has passed away at the age of 84 in Bengaluru after a period of ill health. His impact on India’s space scientific achievements is profound, with significant contributions during his tenure as ISRO chairman from 1994 to 2003. Under his leadership, several key satellite launch programs were successfully executed, notably those involving the Indian National Satellite (INSAT-2) and Indian Remote Sensing Satellites (IRS-1A and 1B). Prior to his chairmanship, he served as director of ISRO’s Satellite Centre, driving the development of next-generation spacecraft and scientific satellites.
According to a statement from ISRO: “Dr. K. Kasturirangan has left for heavenly abode this morning at 10. 43 am at his residence in Bengaluru. His body will be kept at the Raman Research Institute (RRI) in Bengaluru for paying last respects on Sunday April 27th from 1000- 1200 hrs.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sorrow over his demise, honoring Dr. Kasturirangan’s visionary leadership and selfless dedication to advancing India’s space program, which garnered global recognition. He highlighted the importance of Dr. Kasturirangan’s efforts toward the National Education Policy (NEP) and his role as a mentor to budding scientists.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. K. Kasturirangan, a towering figure in India’s scientific and educational journey. His visionary leadership and selfless contribution to the nation will always be remembered.
He served ISRO with great diligence, steering India’s space programme to new heights, for which we also received global recognition. His leadership also witnessed ambitious satellite launches and focussed on innovation.”India will always be grateful to Dr. Kasturirangan for his efforts during the drafting of the National Education Policy (NEP) and in ensuring that learning in India became more holistic and forward-looking. He was also an outstanding mentor to many young scientists and researchers”, PM Modi added.
Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, also mourned Dr. Kasturirangan’s loss, noting that his impactful contributions would resonate for generations. As ISRO’s fifth chairman from 1994 to 2003, he greatly advanced India’s space endeavors, directing key satellite launches and serving as the secretary of the space department until his retirement.
Dr. Kasturirangan, born on October 24, 1940, in Ernakulam, Kerala, led pivotal projects including India’s first remote sensing satellites. He held degrees in Physics and a Doctorate in Experimental High Energy Astronomy. Among his many achievements, he oversaw the successful launches of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle and the testing of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle, highlighting his enduring legacy in science and education.
