Witnessing History - The Launch of Aditya L1, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh

In September of last year, amidst the excitement following the successful launch of Chandrayaan 3, plans were underway for the launch of Aditya L1 into the sun's orbit. Our dear friend, Nigar, was appointed as the Project Director for this mission, filling us with immense pride and joy.

With Nigar Shaji (PD Aditya L1) and
 Veeramuthuvel (PD Chandrayaan 3)

Nigar Shaji, originally from Sengottai,  graduated at the Govt College of Engineering, Tirunelveli, where our paths first crossed. She later pursued her postgraduate studies at Brila Institute of Technology, Mesra. Nigar joined the UR Rao Satellite Centre in Bengaluru as a scientist in 1987. Over the course of her 35-year tenure at ISRO, she held key roles in various missions, including being the associate project director of Resourcesat-2A and the program director for lower orbit and planetary missions. Additionally, she is overseeing India's mission to Venus.

On the morning of September 2, 2023, armed with the passes provided by Nigar, we eagerly made our way to the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The roads leading to the Launch View Gallery were bustling with vehicles from both private individuals and educational institutions, all eager to witness the historic launch of Aditya L1.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by stringent security measures, and as pass holders, we were granted access to the auditorium within the secure confines of the space center. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as attendees watched footage of the preparations at the launchpad and learned about the objectives of the mission. Aditya L1, is India's first solar observatory, aimed to study the dynamics of the Sun continuously from the Lagrange point L1. 

As the countdown began, the crowd shuffled around the terrace to secure the best vantage point. The tension in the air was palpable as the Indian Space Research Organisation prepared to make history with the launch of India's first dedicated solar observation mission.

All eyes squinted upward to the clear sky. The count down started, and we could feel goosebumps... three, two, one, ... and eyes stopped to batter. A few seconds of nothing and then there was a collective gasp. The fiery jetstream cut into the skies, as if in slow motion, ascending higher and higher, leaving a theatrical smoky trail. For once, selfie sticks dangled loose, cameras were held up, but the eyes peeked above the lenses, not to miss an iota moment of this grand feat.

It was a sensory experience: first, the  awe-inspiring visual, and then, as the speed of sound caught up, the roar of the engine, enough to rattle  the building. The crowd stood still looking up even after the rocket had disappeared to a shiny dot. The launch lasted for just two minutes, yet it was the most enthralling experience one could ever have and left a lasting impression on all those present. The achievements of the ISRO and 8 years of hard work of Nigar Shaji and her team ensured the date Sept 02, 2023, be etched with memories that would last a lifetime.

Nigar Shaji has been bestowed with numerous prestigious accolades in the realm of space science, including the ISRO Distinguished Scientist Award and the Dr. Vikram Sarabhai Memorial Award. Recently, she has been recognized by the state government for her significant contributions to space research and at The Times Now Amazing Indian Awards 2023. Nigar Shaji serves as a beacon of inspiration and a role model for aspiring young women in STEM disciplines, thereby setting a commendable example for future generations of women scientists.

Wishing them many more missions to accomplish... 

During the felicitation by TN govt