Moon could be the new settlement beyond Earth: ISRO scientist

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaAugust 23, 2024

Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) Deputy Director Dr V Girish on Friday said that the Moon, Earth’s only natural satellite, has been a source of fascination and mystery for humanity since ancient times.

Delivering a captivating keynote lecture titled “The Moon, an Enigma” on the occasion of National Space Day organized by the Department of Physics of Tezpur University (TU) at the KBR Auditorium, Dr Girish discussed why studying the Moon offers numerous scientific and practical benefits for humankind.

National Space Day was organized to celebrate for the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the Moon on this very day.

“The Moon’s geological record provides clues about the early history of our planet. By examining lunar samples and craters, scientists can learn about the formation of the Solar System”, the ISRO scientist said.

He further added that the Moon is believed to contain valuable resources, such as water ice and helium-3.  Resources that could be crucial for future human exploration and settlement beyond Earth.

Addressing the gathering, Tezpur University VC Prof Shambhu Nath Singh highlighted the importance of the event. “The theme of this year’s National Space Day -Touching Lives while Touching the Moon: India’s Space Saga.” reflects India’s extraordinary journey in space exploration and its impact on society”,

Prof Singh said. He further added that Tezpur University has been collaborating with ISRO and TU alumni has been part of ISRO’s prestigious space science program-Chandrayaan-3 and Aditya-L1.

In addition to the talk, led by Prof Gazi Ameen Ahmed, Department of Physics and chairperson of the organising committee, the University organised several activities to popularise the day.

The astronomy club of the University organised astronomical observation, outreach programs were organised in the nearby villages and a poster session was also organised to observe the day.

Earlier, students, faculty and staff members of the University watched the live streaming of President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu’s address to the nation on the occasion of National Space Day.