Introduction

India has officially declared 23 August as National Space Day. The country celebrated a big day by commemorating the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the lunar surface. On 23 August 2023, India created history when Chandrayaan-3, the mission succeeded in its soft landing at the Moon’s south pole. Thereby becoming the first nation to do so and fourth in total to land on the Moon.

Reasons for celebrating 23 August as National Space Day

Historic Achievement in Lunar Exploration: The Chandrayaan-3 mission landing on the Moon’s south pole was a major milestone not only for ISRO but also for the world of space exploration. This region of the Moon has the potential for future scientific discoveries, especially with its water-ice deposits.

Recognition of India’s Space Capabilities: The government declared August 23 as National Space Day to recognize India’s outstanding achievements in space exploration and ISRO’s continuous efforts to push the limits of space science and technology.

Inspiration for Future Generations: National Space Day is to inspire young minds to take an interest in space science, technology, and research. It calls attention to the importance of scientific inquiry and innovation in reaching ambitious goals.

Encouraging National Pride and Scientific Temper: National Space Day aims to instill a sense of national pride in India’s advancements in space research and to promote a scientific temper among the population.

How National Space Day is Celebrated

The celebration of National Space Day on August 23 includes a variety of activities and events across India:

Educational Programs and Workshops: Many schools and universities have also started conducting space-related education programs to introduce the world of space science, satellite technology, and astronomy in front of the young. Such workshops and interaction sessions with scientists inspire youngsters toward doing research in space science.

Exhibitions and Space Awareness Events: ISRO centers and other scientific institutions organize exhibitions showcasing models, satellites, and mission details to the public. These exhibitions help citizens understand the advancements in India’s space technology.

Talks by Space Scientists and Engineers: Renowned scientists and engineers give talks and lectures on the challenges, successes, and future goals of India’s space missions. This includes sharing behind-the-scenes insights into missions like Chandrayaan-3.

Student Competitions and Projects: National Space Day encourages schools to organize essay competitions, quizzes, and model-making competitions focused on space exploration and India’s contributions to the field.

Public Viewing of Space Events: Special public screenings of significant space missions or documentaries about India’s space program are organized. It makes it easier for citizens to connect with and understand the achievements of ISRO.

Theme for National Space Day-2024

The Theme for National Space Day-2024 is ‘Touching Lives while Touching the Moon- India’s Space Saga’.

What are the recent findings of Chandrayan-3

1. The terrain around Chandrayan 3’s landing site is fairly uniform.
2. A sea hot, molten rock exist under the lunar surface.
3. The moon’s crust was formed layer by layer.
4. The topsoil around the lunar south pole has a greater-than-expected sprinkling of minerals. It composes the lower layers of the lunar crust.

Conclusion

India became the fourth country to land on the moon and the first to reach its southern polar region. To honour this landmark achievement, Hon’ble prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi announced August 23 as National Space Day. A myriad of events will unfold highlighting India’s remarkable achievements in space. These celebrations will culminate into the main event at New Delhi on August 23, 2024.

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