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India’s Satellite Dream: The Legacy of UR Rao and the Journey to Chandrayaan-3
Unveiling the Remarkable Story of India's Space Odyssey
In the wake of the remarkable achievement of the Vikram lander's soft landing on the moon's dark side, Indian hearts swelled with pride. Yet, the limelight now shifts to another unsung hero of this triumph – Chandrayaan-3, the satellite that made it all possible.
August 31, 2023: As the story unfolds, we are taken on the captivating journey of India’s satellite dream, which began in six sheds on the outskirts of Bengaluru in 1972.
A visionary’s quest for excellence
India’s satellite program unfolds with the leadership of Udupi Ramachandra Rao, affectionately called UR Rao. In 1966, Vikram Sarabhai, the visionary director of the Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR), invited his former PhD student from Physical Research Laboratories, Ahmedabad, Udupi Ramachandra Rao, to lead a developing satellite engineering team. Rao’s profound background in solar cosmic-ray phenomena, acquired during his tenure at MIT working on Pioneer space probes and Explorer satellites, made him the perfect candidate for this ambitious project.
Steering through challenges
It would have been easier to bring a concept to life if Vikram Sarabhai hadn’t passed away. As a result of Sarabhai’s sudden death in 1971, Satish Dhawan became ISRO’s new director. Dhawan’s strategic relocation of ISRO to Bengaluru enabled Rao to establish the satellite centre there. In Bengaluru, logistical challenges and the labour force at TERLS posed significant challenges. With the innovative use of available resources, a shed with asbestos roofs in the Peenya Industrial Area had been transformed into a functional ‘clean room,’ an essential requirement for satellite assembly.
The triumph of passionate pioneers
As a result of Rao’s dynamic leadership, a group of young and driven scientists and engineers embarked on a riveting mission between 1972 and 1975. The outcome was astonishing – India’s inaugural satellite, Aryabhata, was brought to life. No other nation had constructed a satellite of this magnitude in three years. The ingenuity and determination of India’s pioneering team were exemplified by the image of Aryabhata being transported on a wooden bullock cart to mitigate electromagnetic interference.
The enduring legacy of UR Rao
There will always be a resounding legacy of UR Rao. During his tenure as ISRO’s Chairman, Rao supervised the design of 18 subsequent satellites and advanced satellite launch vehicles such as ASLVs and PSLVs. His unparalleled contributions led to his induction into the International Astronautical Federation’s ‘Hall of Fame,’ a well-deserved honour. Rao remained steadfast in his commitment, passing away with his boots on, leaving behind an enduring legacy.
The ISRO Satellite Centre: A testament to Rao’s vision
Today, the ISRO Satellite Centre bears witness to Rao’s perseverance and vision. With its name UR Rao Satellite Centre, the center played a pivotal role in constructing all Chandrayaan satellites. Through his audacious dreams and unwavering determination, Rao catapulted India’s satellite endeavours to unprecedented heights.
UR Rao stands out as a luminary in India’s journey to the stars in the history books. From dusty sheds to space, his legacy inspires aspiring scientists and engineers. India’s satellite dream, inspired by a visionary and nurtured by a dedicated team, continues to shape the nation’s space odyssey, forever changing the face of space exploration.
