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New Delhi, June 10, 2024 — India’s scientific community mourns the loss of Prof Eknath Chitnis, a pioneering astrophysicist and key architect of the country’s space programme, who passed away at 100. A visionary who shaped India’s space ambitions, Prof Chitnis died peacefully at his Pune home, surrounded by family.
The Architect of India’s Space Ambitions
Prof Chitnis was among the first scientists to join INCOSPAR (Indian National Committee for Space Research) in 1962—the precursor to ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation). Under Dr Vikram Sarabhai, he helped establish India’s first rocket launch station in Thumba, Kerala, and pioneered early space experiments in cosmic rays and atmospheric physics.
“Prof Chitnis was a mentor who shaped ISRO’s future,” said ISRO Chairman S Somanath. “His work on sounding rockets laid the foundation for missions like Aryabhata, Chandrayaan, and Mangalyaan.”
From Rural Maharashtra to Global Recognition
Born in 1924 in Maharashtra, Chitnis rose from modest beginnings to earn a PhD from the University of Bombay and conduct postdoctoral research under Nobel laureate Dr Arthur Compton at the University of Chicago. Despite international offers, he returned to India in the 1950s to advance the nation’s space capabilities.
In the 1970s, he led critical experiments on Aryabhata (India’s first satellite) and contributed to the Rohini satellite series. His cosmic ray research earned him NASA collaborations and recognition from the International Astronomical Union.
More Than a Scientist: A Mentor & Advocate
Beyond his technical brilliance, Prof Chitnis was known for his humility and commitment to science education. As Director of PRL (Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad), he mentored future ISRO leaders and championed fundamental research.
“Science is about curiosity and courage,” he often said. His autobiography, From Earth to the Cosmos, remains an inspiration for young scientists.
Nation Pays Tribute
Condolences poured in from PM Narendra Modi, who called him “a beacon of India’s scientific spirit,” and President Droupadi Murmu, who hailed his “legacy of stellar achievements.”
ISRO announced its Aditya-L1 solar mission will be dedicated to his memory, honoring his contributions to solar physics.
A Century of Scientific Legacy
From Thumba’s first rockets to Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan, Prof Chitnis witnessed India’s rise as a space superpower. As the nation prepares for Gaganyaan, his legacy endures.
His funeral in Pune will be held with state honors—a fitting tribute to a man who propelled India into space.
Rest among the stars, Prof Chitnis.
(Stay updated on India’s scientific pioneers with NextMinuteNews.)
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