Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan: Architect of India’s Space Programme Passes Away at 84

In a country full of inspiring stories, few shine as brightly as Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan, the Kerala-born scientist who played a defining role in shaping India’s space programme. As India remembers Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan after his passing on 25 April 2025, his journey from a humble background to becoming the face of ISRO leadership continues to inspire millions.

The story of Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan is not just about rockets, satellites, and missions, it is about vision, discipline, and building India’s space dreams step by step.

Born on 24 October 1940 in Ernakulam, Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan grew up in a family that valued education and discipline. The early life of Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan was marked by personal loss, including the death of his mother at a young age. Despite challenges, Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan moved to Mumbai with his father, where his journey towards becoming a leading Indian space scientist began.

The academic journey of Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan laid the foundation for his success in space science and astrophysics. After graduating from Ramnarain Ruia College, Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan pursued his Master’s in Physics from the University of Mumbai. Later, Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan completed his PhD in experimental high-energy astronomy at the Physical Research Laboratory in Ahmedabad. Over the years, Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan published more than 240 research papers, establishing himself as a leading voice in astronomy, space research, and high-energy astrophysics.

The most defining chapter in the life of Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan came when he became Chairman of ISRO (1994–2003). During his tenure, Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan transformed India’s space capabilities and led some of the most important developments in India’s space missions. Under his leadership, India achieved the operational success of PSLV, development of GSLV, expansion of INSAT satellites, and growth of IRS remote sensing satellites.

One of the most visionary contributions of Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan was his role in initiating the idea of Chandrayaan-1, India’s first moon mission. Although the mission was launched later, the groundwork laid by him helped India step into the era of planetary exploration.

Even after his ISRO tenure, Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan continued to contribute to nation-building. He served as a Rajya Sabha member, Planning Commission member, Chairman of Karnataka Knowledge Commission, and Director at the National Institute of Advanced Studies. Importantly, he played a key role in shaping the National Education Policy (NEP 2020) and later led the National Curriculum Framework.

The immense contributions of Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan were recognised with India’s top civilian awards: Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan. Known for his calm and composed personality, he was respected not just as a scientist but as a visionary leader.

On 25 April 2025, India lost one of its greatest scientific minds when Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan passed away at the age of 84. Even today, his legacy lives on in every successful satellite launch, every space mission, and every young student dreaming of reaching the stars.