India recently marked its first-ever National Space Day on August 23, 2024, a day of great significance as it commemorates the historic achievement of ISRO’s Chandrayaan-3 mission.
About National Science Day:
- On August 23, 2023, the Vikram Lander successfully touched the Moon’s surface, as the fourth country to accomplish a lunar landing and the first to reach the Moon’s southern polar region.
- The Pragyan Rover was deployed to explore the lunar surface, and the landing site was named ‘Shiv Shakti’ point.
- To honour this historic feat, Prime Minister declared August 23 as “National Space Day,” a day to celebrate India’s progress in space science and technology.
National Space Day, 2024:
- The theme is “Touching Lives while Touching the Moon: India’s Space Saga.”
- This theme reflects the transformative impact of India’s space exploration on society, highlighting the nation’s journey from curiosity to active participation in the cosmos.
- The event features high-profile sessions, interactive exhibitions, and major announcements about India’s space achievements.
- A unique initiative known as “Space on Wheels” is taking the celebrations to universities and colleges across India.
- These mobile exhibitions aim to educate students about ISRO’s activities and India’s groundbreaking space missions.
- It focuses on engaging young minds through interactive activities like a student quiz to foster deep interest in space science among students.
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Frequently Asked Question:
What is National Space Day?
It marks the successful landing of the Vikram Lander on the Moon’s surface and honors India’s progress in space exploration.
Why was August 23 chosen as National Space Day?
August 23 was chosen to commemorate the historic achievement of India’s Vikram Lander successfully landing on the Moon’s surface, specifically at the ‘Shiv Shakti’ point, making India the fourth country to achieve a lunar landing and the first to land at the Moon’s southern polar region.
What is the theme for National Space Day 2024?
The theme for National Space Day 2024 is “Touching Lives while Touching the Moon: India’s Space Saga.”