The ISRO Chairman holds a significant position as the head of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the premier space agency of India. The Chairman is responsible for leading and overseeing the organization’s activities in space research, satellite launches, and space missions. This esteemed role requires exceptional leadership, scientific expertise, and strategic vision to drive advancements in space technology and exploration.
The ISRO Chairman is a distinguished role within the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), serving as its official head. Holding the position of Secretary to the Government of India and a key executive of the Department of Space, the Chairman holds a direct reporting line to the Prime Minister of India. Presented below is a compilation of ISRO Chairmen, showcasing their accomplishments and tenures in office
List of ISRO Chairman
Here’s the complete list of ISRO Chairpersons:
| Name of ISRO Chairman | Tenure | Length of Term |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Vikram Sarabhai | From 1963 to 1971 | 9 years |
| Prof. M. G. K. Menon | From Jan 1972 to Sept 1972 | 9 months |
| Prof. Satish Dhawan | From 1972 to 1984 | 12 years |
| Prof. U. R. Rao | From 1984 to 1994 | 10 years |
| Dr. K. Kasturirangan | From 1994 to 2003 | 9 years |
| G. Madhavan Nair | From 2003 to 2009 | 6 years |
| Dr. K. Radhakrishnan | From 2009 to 2014 | 5 years |
| A. S. Kiran Kumar | From 2015 to 2018 | 3 years |
| Dr. K. Sivan | From Jan 2018 to Jan 2022 | 3 years |
| S Somanath | 12 Jan 2022 – incumbent | – |
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Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman List
- Dr. Vikram Ambalal Sarabhai: He is the father of the Indian Space Program and Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission. He initiated the project for the fabrication and launch of the first Indian Satellite, “Aryabhata”.
- Prof. M. G. K. Menon: He was an Advisor in the Department of Space at the Indian Space Research Organization. He served as the President of the Indian Statistical Institute, Calcutta, and made significant contributions in the field of Cosmic Rays and Particle research.
- Prof. Satish Dhawan: He was an Indian Rocket Scientist known as the father of experimental fluid dynamics research in India. He established the first supersonic wind tunnel in India and conducted experiments in rural education, remote sensing, and satellite communications.
- Prof. Udupi Ramachandra Rao: He was an internationally renowned Space Scientist who contributed extensively to the development of space technology in India, particularly in communication and remote sensing. He played a vital role in the development of rocket technology, including the ASLV Rocket.
- Dr. K. Kasturirangan: He is presently a member of the Planning Commission and has served as the Director of the ISRO Satellite Centre. He played a crucial role in the development and launching of Indian National Satellites (INSAT) and scientific satellites, along with contributions in astronomy and space science.
- Shri G. Madhavan Nair: He had a significant tenure as Chairman of ISRO/Secretary, DOS, during which many successful missions were accomplished, including INSAT and PSLV launches. He has also been a key figure in international space committees.
- Dr. K. Radhakrishnan: He is a distinguished technocrat who served as the Chairman of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission and played crucial roles in global ocean observing systems and UN-COPUOS committees.
- Shailesh Nayak: He has held several positions within ISRO and MoES, including Chairman of the Earth Commission and Director of the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services.
- Shri A. S. Kiran Kumar: He served as the Secretary of the Department of Space, Chairman of the Space Commission, and Chairman of ISRO. He contributed to the design and development of earth observation, communication, navigation, and space science payloads.
- Dr. K. Sivan: He served as the Secretary of the Department of Space, Chairman of the Space Commission, and Chairman of ISRO. He made significant contributions to mission planning, design, and analysis, leading to successful launches of PSLV and GSLV rockets.
- Shri S. Somanath: He is an Aerospace Engineer and the current Chairman of ISRO. He has held positions as the Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre and Director of Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre, with expertise in launch vehicle design and structural dynamics.
Checkout complete updated list of former Secretaries / chairpersons of ISRO with photo at official website
https://www.isro.gov.in/formerchairman.html
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