Veteran space scientist Dr. Eknath Vasant Chitnis, one of the pioneering figures of India’s space journey, passed away on Wednesday at his residence in Pune. He was 100. Family members said Dr. Chitnis had been ailing for a few days and succumbed to a heart attack in the morning.
A recipient of the Padma Bhushan, Dr. Chitnis was among the founding members of the Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR), which later evolved into the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). He played a vital role in identifying Thumba in Kerala as the ideal site for India’s first rocket launch, a decision that laid the foundation for the country’s ambitious space programme.
From 1981 to 1985, Dr. Chitnis served as the Director of ISRO’s Space Applications Centre (SAC) in Ahmedabad, contributing significantly to the development of satellite technology for national needs.
A close associate of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the father of India’s space programme, Dr. Chitnis was also known for mentoring a young Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who later became the President of India.
He is survived by his son Dr. Chetan Chitnis, daughter-in-law Amika, and granddaughters Tarini and Chandini.
