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| Station Shiv Shakti: Symbolism in India's Lunar Legacy[Source-belgavkar] |
The International Astronomical Union (IAU) has sanctioned the name ‘Station Shiv Shakti’ for the landing spot of Chandrayaan-3’s Vikram lander on the Moon. This approval stems from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s declaration on August 26, 2023, christening the site as ‘Shiva Shakti’. This decision underscores a fusion of Indian mythology and scientific exploration.
Etymology and Symbolism:
The term ‘Station Shiv Shakti’ finds its roots in Indian mythology, symbolizing the harmonious balance between masculine (Shiva) and feminine (Shakti) energies. Prime Minister Modi elucidated that these names not only unify India geographically, from the Himalayas to Kanyakumari, but also represent resolve and strength for humanity's well-being.
Planetary Nomenclature Insights:
Planetary nomenclature, akin to terrestrial naming conventions, serves to uniquely identify features on celestial bodies. The Gazetteer of Planetary Nomenclature meticulously records IAU-approved names of topographic and albedo features since its inception in 1919.
Chandrayaan-3 Expedition:
Chandrayaan-3 stands as India’s third lunar exploration endeavor, following the successes of Chandrayaan-1 and Chandrayaan-2. Its primary aim was a soft lunar landing, achieved triumphantly by the Vikram lander. The christening of the landing site as ‘Station Shiv Shakti’ marks a historic chapter in India’s space odyssey.
Historical Context and Naming Tradition:
Reflecting on previous lunar endeavors, India's Chandrayaan-1 mission's Moon Impact Probe (MIP) made history in 2008, with its landing site named ‘Jawahar Point’ in tribute to Jawaharlal Nehru. Prime Minister Modi also revealed that Chandrayaan-2's landing site would be named ‘Tiranga’, symbolizing India’s national flag.
Key Exam Points:
- The IAU, established in 1919, oversees the official nomenclature of celestial bodies and features.
- Lunar features are named according to specific themes, such as the backgrounds of individuals or their locations on the Moon.
- Chandrayaan-3, developed by ISRO, was launched on July 14, 2023, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
- The Vikram lander, honoring Vikram Sarabhai, housed the Pragyan rover for lunar exploration and scientific investigations.
- India joins an elite league, becoming the fourth nation to accomplish a soft landing on the Moon, after the US, former USSR, and China.
This landmark achievement not only propels India’s stature in space exploration but also serves as a testament to its rich cultural tapestry interwoven with scientific endeavors.