ISRO Chief Supports 'Shiv Shakti' Name for Chandrayaan-3 Lunar Landing Site

 

ISRO Chief Supports 'Shiv Shakti' Name for Chandrayaan-3 Lunar Landing Site

The head of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), S Somanath, has emphasized that the naming of Chandrayaan-3's lunar landing site as 'Shiv Shakti' has no contentious issues and is a suitable choice. He believes that the name aligns with the sentiments of all and carries no negative implications.

Somanath explained the rationale behind calling the touchdown point 'Shiva Shakti' by mentioning that the Prime Minister conveyed its meaning in a way that resonates with everyone. He underlined that this choice is appropriate and connected it to the subsequent name 'Tiranga,' emphasizing that both names reflect the essence of India. He pointed out that the Prime Minister, being the leader of the nation, has the privilege of naming such significant landmarks.

During his visit to the Pournamikavu-Bhadrakali Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Somanath shared his perspective on the relationship between science and belief. He asserted that these are distinct aspects and should not be conflated. He expressed his personal approach to exploration, stating that he delves into both scientific endeavors and spiritual contemplation. Somanath articulated that his explorations encompass the material realm through scientific pursuits and the inner self through spiritual reflections, reflecting a harmonious blend of cultural facets.

Somanath highlighted India's achievement as the first country to successfully land on the moon's south pole, a challenging feat owing to the tricky terrain characterized by peaks and valleys. He stressed that precision in calculations was crucial, as even a minor error could lead to mission failure.

The decision to focus on the moon's south pole for exploration was explained by the abundance of minerals in the region. Somanath revealed that scientists plan to expedite mineral analysis based on the data provided by the lunar rover.
The announcement by Prime Minister Modi regarding the names of moon landing sites triggered a debate between political parties. The Prime Minister disclosed that the Chandrayaan-3 landing site would be designated as 'Shiv Shakti Point,' while the location where Chandrayaan-2 faced challenges in 2019 would be known as 'Tiranga Point.'

Criticism from the Congress party led to exchanges with the BJP. Congress leader Rashid Alvi's comments were met with a response from BJP's Gaurav Bhatia. Bhatia recalled the naming of a moon point after Jawaharlal Nehru during the Chandrayaan-1 mission, initiated during the Congress-led UPA government. He labeled Congress's criticism as "anti-Hindu," stating that it displayed disrespect towards Hindu sentiments. The political discourse has once again ignited discussions about the intersection of science, culture, and politics in India.