As the countdown to Chandrayaan-3’s lunar landing quickens, a constellation of extraordinary women comes into focus, guiding India’s aspirations to new lunar horizons. Behind the scenes of this audacious mission are individuals whose dedication and brilliance have illuminated the path to success. These women are pioneers, visionaries, and role models, inspiring generations to reach for the stars and beyond.
Ritu Karidhal Srivastava: The Rocket Woman of India
At the heart of this remarkable journey is Ritu Karidhal Srivastava, affectionately dubbed the ‘Rocket Woman of India.’ A senior scientist at ISRO, she stands as the Mission Director of Chandrayaan-2 and the Deputy Operations Director of Mangalyaan, India’s Mars Orbiter Mission. Hailing from Lucknow, she embarked on her journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Physics and an ME in Aerospace Engineering from the Indian Institute of Science. Her journey with ISRO commenced in 1997, leading to a trailblazing career that has garnered numerous accolades, including the ‘ISRO Young Scientist Award,’ ‘ASI Team Award,’ and ‘Women Achievers in Aerospace’ honor.
Dr. VR Lalithambika: Navigating the Cosmos
Born in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Dr. VR Lalithambika is a luminary in Advanced Launcher Technologies. Guiding the Gaganyaan mission, she aimed to send Indian astronauts into space in 2022. With a treasure trove of over 100 ISRO missions, her expertise shines through. Previously the deputy director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, her prowess in control, simulation, and guidance is exemplified in her ‘Astronautical Society of India Award of Excellence in launch vehicle technology.’
Nandini Harinath: Scripting Success, Mission by Mission
A true veteran at ISRO, Nandini Harinath’s two-decade journey has seen her contribute to over 14 missions. A pivotal figure in the Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan), she played the role of Deputy Operations Director. Currently serving as the Project Manager and Mission Designer, her dedication personifies the spirit of exploration.
Vanitha Muthayya: Forging Frontiers in Lunar Exploration
With over three decades of service, Vanitha Muthayya stands as a vital cog in ISRO’s machinery. Having helmed projects on satellites, she steered Chandrayaan-2’s lunar mission as the Project Director. A trailblazer, she was part of the leadership team for Mangalyaan, making her the first woman project director and a leader of an interplanetary mission. Her accomplishments extend to receiving the ‘Best Woman Scientist’ award by the Astronomical Society of India.
Anuradha TK: The Silent Dynamo
A retired scientist with 34 years of dedicated service, Anuradha TK specialized in communication satellites. Her unwavering commitment to excellence shines through her role in launching communication satellites GSAT-9, GSAT-17, and GSAT-18. Her stance on gender equality at ISRO is a testament to the organization’s inclusive culture.
Moumita Dutta: Illuminating the Cosmos
A physicist par excellence, Moumita Dutta played a pivotal role in the Mars Orbiter Mission. Her specialization in Optical and IR instruments, sensors, and payloads has propelled ISRO’s achievements. Passionate about Chandrayaan from her childhood, her dedication reflects in her involvement in the ‘Make in India’ concept and research on gas sensor miniaturization.
A Galaxy of Inspiration
These remarkable women encapsulate the spirit of innovation, determination, and relentless pursuit of excellence. As Chandrayaan-3 prepares to write its own chapter in lunar exploration, it does so with the indomitable spirit of these women guiding its trajectory. Their journey transcends the confines of science and resonates as a symphony of empowerment, proving that in the boundless cosmos, the potential of human endeavor knows no boundaries.
As we await the momentous landing, let us celebrate the brilliance of these women who defy limits, rewrite history, and inspire us all to embrace the infinite possibilities that lie ahead. In their stories, we find the stars that illuminate our path to the future – a future where dreams and the universe itself are within our reach.
surjitt sahani
