India will surely appreciate the efforts made by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) despite the loss of communication with Chandrayaan-2's Vikram. Still, its a proud moment for India because ISRO is very close to land a spacecraft on the Moon's surface because the lander performed well until 2.1 km altitude above the surface which is not easy. ISRO will learn from their failure in the maiden attempt and come strong in the coming days to place India besides a few countries in the world who have operating rovers on the Moon.
The space agency is also putting its best foot forward for various space mission which requires a large team of space scientists. This will surely inspire youngsters to start drafting their career in space science in India. If you are aspiring to build the future with the mysteries of space or aiming to be a part of India's space programmes, you should read how to become a space scientist in ISRO. To assist you better in achieving your space science dream, we have touched the areas of ISRO jobs, courses in space science after 12th and space science colleges in India.
Who Is A Space Scientist?
Space science is a field where scientists research the universe. In this field, there are two kinds of space scientists: - Physicists and Astronomers. Physicists focus on the theoretical areas of the field and laboratory equipment. They are responsible for how things function in space, while, astronomers will do their studies on stars, planets, galaxies, etc. Despite the field you choose, all roads lead to a career in space science. The new policy on Space Technology of Narendra Modi government has opened the doors for many opportunities in private firms along with ISRO. The scope in India has grown by more than five times.
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How To Become A Space Scientist In ISRO?
To become a space scientist, one should possess relevant education in pure science or engineering disciplines. ISRO recruit candidates with PhD in Astronomy, Physics and Mathematics along with engineers in disciplines such as mechanical, electrical, electronics and computer science. Candidates who are aiming for ISRO jobs should pursue their bachelors' degree in the above-described disciplines or related to space technology and physics.
How To Plan A Career In Space Science After 12th?
If you've decided to take up a career in space science, it is advised to start early after Class 10. Candidates should choose PCM (Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics) at Class 12 and B.Tech/B.E. in disciplines such as Electronics, Electrical, Mechanical and Computer Science. One can also take up a science degree such as bachelors' in Mathematics, Physics and Astronomy and should go for a masters degree in the discipline. A PhD in Physics and Mathematics is an added advantage. Few other courses like B. Tech in Aerospace Engineering, B. Tech in Avionics Engineering, M. Tech in Electronics, Electrical, Mechanical and Computer Science can open the doors to this sector. At masters level Masters in Astronomy (MSc Astronomy) is also a good option. After graduations you can do PhD in Aerospace Engineering, PhD in Astronomy, PhD in Physics also.
How To Get ISRO Jobs?
The recruitment to ISRO is conducted by a Centralised Recruitment Board. Candidates can find ISRO jobs under the 'Careers' tab on the ISRO official website. One who meets the eligibility conditions set by ISRO can apply for jobs. The selection will be made through a written examination and an interview. ISRO also recruits candidates directly through campus placements from pioneer institutes in the country such as the IITs and IISc, to name a few.
Courses In Space Science After 12th
- B.Tech in Aerospace Engineering
- B.Tech in Avionics Engineering
- B.Tech+M.S./M.Tech (B.Tech. in Engineering
- Physics + M.S. in Solid State Physics, Astronomy, Earth System Science/ M.Tech. in Optical Engineering)
- M.Tech in Electronics, Electrical, Mechanical and Computer Science
- PhD in relevant disciplines
- Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore
- Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER-TVM)
- Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology, Kerala
- Centre for Earth and Space Sciences, (University of Hyderabad)
- Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences, Nainital
- Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bangalore
- Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics, Pune
- National Centre for Radio Astronomy, Pune
- Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad
- Radio Astronomy Center, Ooty
- Raman Research Institute, Bangalore
Top Space Science Colleges In India
Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) are at the top when it comes to offering bachelors' degrees in engineering. Some of the top IITs also offer Masters in Astrophysics. Top institutes that offer courses related to pursuing a career in space science are listed below.
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Space Companies in India
Here is the list of the companies working in the sector of space technology, directly or indirectly. Directly means making rockets, space crafts, launchers, satellites, etc. whereas indirectly means developing supporting systems and tools for the above things. So list of major companies.
State Owned:
ISRO - Launch vehicles, Rocket engines, Spacecraft Technology Rocket boosters.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) - Transport aircraft, Fighter aircraft, Helicopters, Crew capsule (Gaganyaan).
Antrix Corporation - Satellite systems, Launch vehicles, Technology and consultancy.
NewSpace India Limited - Satellite systems, Launch vehicles, Technology and consultancy.
Private Companies:
Godrej Aerospace- Rocket engines, Spacecraft thrusters.
Larsen & Toubro- Rocket boosters, Spacecraft, Space infrastructure.
AgniKul Cosmos - Launch vehicles.
Bellatrix Aerospace- Satellite propulsion systems, Launch vehicles.
Dhruva Space - Satellites.
Pixxel - Earth imaging satellites.
Satellize - Satellites.
Skyroot Aerospace - Launch vehicles.
Manastu Space- Satellites and spacecraft components, Satellite propulsion systems and thrusters, Propellants, Safety systems, Spacecraft refueling, Life-extension, D-orbiting.