Former ISRO chairman Dr. K Kasturirangan passed away at his Bengaluru home on Friday morning. ISRO confirmed that he breathed his last at 10:43 am. His mortal remains will be kept at the Raman Research Institute on Sunday, April 27, between 10 am and noon, for public homage.

Kasturirangan led ISRO, the Space Commission, and the Department of Space for over nine years, stepping down on August 27, 2003. His tenure witnessed historic advancements, including major satellite launches and the strengthening of India’s global space reputation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi mourned his death, describing him as a “towering figure” whose visionary leadership shaped India’s scientific and educational landscapes. Modi praised his relentless commitment, calling him a pioneer of innovation in India’s space journey.

Beyond space, Kasturirangan played a vital role in education reforms. He served as the Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University, chaired the Karnataka Knowledge Commission, and was a Planning Commission and Rajya Sabha member from 2003 to 2009.

As Director of the ISRO Satellite Centre, he oversaw key missions like INSAT-2, IRS-1A/1B, and scientific satellite programs. He was also Project Director for India’s first Earth observation satellites, Bhaskara I and II, and supervised landmark PSLV and GSLV launches.

An astrophysicist by training, he made profound contributions to cosmic X-ray and gamma-ray astronomy. His achievements earned him India’s highest civilian honors: Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan.

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