Ex-director of space centre encourages youths to pursue career in satellite tech

Guwahati: On Satellite Technology Day, Kumud Chandra Bhattacharyya, former director of the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC) under Isro, addressed young minds, urging them to pursue studies and careers in space sciences and satellite technology.

Speaking at an event organised by the Guwahati Planetarium, Bhattacharyya highlighted the growing importance of satellite-based solutions in addressing real-world challenges. He cited their role in disaster management, border security, agricultural planning, climate monitoring, and infrastructure development, emphasising how satellite technology is shaping the nation's future.

Reflecting on India's inspiring space journey, Bhattacharyya recounted the launch of Aryabhata, the country's first satellite in 1975. This historic milestone marked India's entry into space exploration.

He outlined the evolution of Isro from its modest beginnings in the 1960s, under the vision of Vikram Sarabhai, to its current standing as a global space leader. Highlighting missions like Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan, and the upcoming Gaganyaan, Bhattacharyya applauded Isro's progress in deploying PSLV and GSLV rockets for diverse applications in remote sensing, navigation, and weather forecasting.

Meanwhile, in Assam's Baksa district, Nilesh M Desai, director of Isro's Space Applications Centre, inaugurated a space lab at Barama Girls' High School. Speaking to the media, Desai shared Isro's efforts to promote space science in the region.

"We've launched initiatives like model installations and interactive activities to ignite curiosity among students. These efforts aim to inspire a new generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators to drive India's ambitious goals, such as a Mars landing and lunar exploration," he said.