NIT Srinagar commemorates first National Space Day

Srinagar, Aug 23: The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Friday celebrated National Space Day to commemorate India’s Moon mission Chandrayaan-3 which scripted history by successfully landing on the lunar surface in August 2023.

A statement of the NIT Srinagar issued here said that the theme for National Space Day 2024 was “Touching Lives while Touching the Moon: India’s Space Saga,” highlighting the broader impact of space exploration on society and emphasising how advancements in space technology can enhance the quality of life on Earth.

In his key message, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof A Ravinder Nath highlighted the achievements in space exploration and the relentless dedication of scientists and engineers.

“On this National Space Day, let us celebrate the remarkable achievements in space exploration and the unwavering commitment of scientists and engineers who push the boundaries of our understanding. Their work inspires future generations to dream big and inspire us,” he said.

The inaugural session was presided over by Registrar NIT Srinagar, Prof Atikur Rehman.

“This day is not only a celebration of India's achievements in space but also a platform to raise awareness about the significance of space exploration,” he said.

Prof Prince Ganai served as Nodal Officer of the National Space Day, while M Zubair Ansari and Dinesh Kumar Rajendran were the coordinators of the event.

On the occasion, Dean of Faculty Welfare Prof G A Harmain highlighted the historical significance of the first National Space Day.

It marks a new era of educational focus on space sciences and the need for space exploration among students, he said.

Dean of Alumni Affairs, Prof Sheikh Nazir Ahmed said this day serves as a reminder of the dedication and innovation of India's space scientists, whose efforts have propelled the nation to new heights with the successful landing of the Vikram Lander.

Prof M A Shah said that India celebrates not just the success of Chandrayaan-3 but also the spirit of scientific inquiry and exploration that drives the nation's space ambitions.

HoD Physics, Prof Ikram said by commemorating National Space Day, India highlights its dedication to advancing space science and technology and encouraging innovation.

In his welcome address, Prof Prince Ganai, Nodal Officer of the event, extended a warm welcome to the guests and introduced the theme ‘Touching Lives while Touching the Moon: India's Space Saga’.

He said this theme aptly reflects the essence of our space journey and stated how space exploration has advanced scientific knowledge and enriched daily life through technological innovations.

The first session on the ‘Journey of Chandrayan “Pride of ISRO’ was delivered by Dinesh Kumar R, Assistant Professor, MED, NIT Srinagar.

It was followed by a panel discussion on ‘Indian Academia in Space' and it was moderated by Prof. Prince Ganai. The panellists include Prof R K Dan, IIT Kharagpur, Shahid Mir, CEO, GIF and Inbisat, Satellite Researcher, CUK. They encouraged young students to develop foundational skills in science and technology to explore new ideas and designs.

Following this, a special workshop on 'Drones in Space and Satellite Science' (75 Satellite Mission) was conducted, featuring sessions led by Dinesh Kumar Rajendran, Tusar, Asvik, Abid, and Zahid.

The technical session on 'The Future of the Indian Space Industry over the Next Decade' was hosted by Subhash Kupusamy, ISRO Space Tutor and CEO of Bhramastra Aerospace.

Another workshop titled 'Exploring Space through an Eyepiece' was led by Numaan Bashir Ganaie, CEO of Vision Cosmos, and Murtaza Abbas Khan, CTO of Vision Cosmos.

The event also included a drawing competition on 'The Journey of the Indian Space Program,' followed by a quiz competition on Space Science.

Dinesh Kumar Rajendran, the event coordinator, delivered the formal vote of thanks, expressing his gratitude to the resource persons, students, and scholars for their contributions to the program's success.

He also thanked the NIT Srinagar administration for their steadfast support in organising such impactful events on campus.