The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) manages India's space programme. It has carried out missions to the Moon, Mars and the Sun. ISRO missions are a frequently asked topic in static GK and current affairs sections.
About ISRO
ISRO was founded in 1969 and is headquartered in Bengaluru. Its founder is often regarded as Vikram Sarabhai. ISRO uses launch vehicles like the PSLV and GSLV.
Moon Missions
- Chandrayaan-1 (2008): India's first Moon mission, found water molecules.
- Chandrayaan-2 (2019): orbiter, lander and rover mission.
- Chandrayaan-3 (2023): soft-landed near the Moon's south pole.
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Mars and Sun Missions
- Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission, 2013): India reached Mars in its first attempt.
- Aditya-L1 (2023): India's first mission to study the Sun.
Record Launches
In 2017, ISRO launched a record 104 satellites in a single flight using the PSLV. The upcoming Gaganyaan mission aims to send Indian astronauts into space.
Quick Revision Points
- ISRO was founded in 1969, headquartered in Bengaluru.
- Chandrayaan-1 (2008) found water on the Moon.
- Chandrayaan-3 (2023) landed near the Moon's south pole.
- Mangalyaan reached Mars in 2014, first attempt.
- Aditya-L1 studies the Sun.
- ISRO launched 104 satellites in one mission in 2017.
- Gaganyaan is India's planned human spaceflight.