#memory
#science
Prof Satish Dhawan.
25 September is the death anniversary of Prof Satish Dhawan ( 1920-2002).
Prof Satish Dhawan is the scientist responsible for the development of the Indian Space Program as it is today.
Born in Kashmir, Dhawan took an MA in English literature and a BE in Mechanical Engineering before proceeding to the USA for higher studies.
During 1947 -51, he took an MS in Aeronautical Engineering from Minnesota University, a PG degree in Aeronautical Engineering and a PhD in Engineering from the prestigious California Institute of Technology.
On his return he was appointed in the Indian Institute of Science Bangalore where he rose to become the youngest Director in 1962.
Prof Dhawan was requested to take charge of the Indian Space Program after the death of Vikram Sarabhai. In 1972 he was appointed Chairman of the ISRO even as he continued to be Director of the IISc Bangalore.
Prof Dhawan was simultaneously appointed Chairman of the Space Commission and Secretary to the Government of India.
The greatness of Dhawan was in handpicking young bright professionals to lead the various programmes. Abdul Kalam was chosen to lead the Satellite Launch Vehicle ( also later converted into Missiles), U R Rao to build the first satellite Aryabhatta and Rodham Narasimha to head the research at the National Academy of Aeronautics.
He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 1981.
The Satellite Launch Centre at Sreeharikotta in Andhra Pradesh was named Satish Dhawan Space Centre in 2002 in honour of this great scientist.
– Joy Kallivayalil.
