New Delhi: In a momentous achievement for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the Chandrayaan-3 mission was successfully launched on July 14, 2023 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. Led by India’s ‘Rocket Woman,’ Dr. Ritu Karidhal Srivastava,’ the mission marks India’s third lunar endeavor and its second attempt at a soft landing on the moon’s surface.
This mission stands out with a significant number of women scientists at the forefront. Around 54 female engineers and scientists have played integral roles in various capacities, including associates, deputy project directors, and project managers for different systems.
Dr. Ritu Karidhal Srivastava, the mission director of Chandrayaan-2 and the deputy operations director of ISRO’s Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), assumes the helm of the Chandrayaan-3 mission. Hailing from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Dr. Karidhal Srivastava pursued her passion for space from a young age. She completed her MSc in Physics from Lucknow University in 1996 and her MTech from the Department of Aerospace Engineering at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru.
Joining ISRO in 1997, Dr. Karidhal Srivastava has since contributed significantly to several prestigious space missions. She played a vital role in the success of the Mars Orbiter Mission in 2014, which made India the first Asian nation to reach the orbit of the Red Planet. Her expertise in aerospace and her dedication to the field have earned her recognition, with more than 20 papers published in international and national publications.
The launch of Chandrayaan-3 not only symbolizes India’s commitment to rectify past mistakes but also showcases the remarkable contributions of women scientists in the country’s space program. Their expertise, dedication, and resilience have been instrumental in achieving this milestone. The mission’s success would make India the fourth country, after the United States, Russia, and China, to accomplish a soft landing on the moon.
Chandrayaan-3 mission:
The ‘Launch Rehearsal’ simulating the entire launch preparation and process lasting 24 hours has been concluded.Mission brochure: https://t.co/cCnH05sPcW pic.twitter.com/oqV1TYux8V
— ISRO (@isro) July 11, 2023
As the ISRO team basks in the glory of their accomplishment, congratulatory messages pour in from across the nation. Among the many well-wishers, Professor Poonam Tandon of Lucknow University expressed her pride in Dr. Karidhal Srivastava, emphasizing her brilliance as a student and her selection in ISRO while pursuing her PhD.
The family of Dr. Karidhal Srivastava also celebrated the successful launch, distributing sweets and sharing the joy of this remarkable achievement. With her leadership and the invaluable contributions of the team of women scientists, Chandrayaan-3 stands as a testament to India’s prowess in space exploration and a shining example of women’s empowerment in STEM fields.
In an industry traditionally dominated by men, the notable presence of women in key roles exemplifies the progress India has made in promoting gender diversity and inclusivity. The dedication and expertise of women like Dr. Ritu Karidhal Srivastava and her team continue to inspire generations to come, setting new milestones and pushing the boundaries of scientific achievement.