SomanathSpeaking

A for Media

Over the past few days, as I journeyed across regions, I had the rare pleasure of reading newspapers in multiple languages, and I must say, I thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it. Thanks to the mission and the presence of on board, Indian media (particularly print) rose to the occasion with admirable enthusiasm.

The depth and range of coverage were truly commendable. From detailed mission reports and striking visuals to human interest narratives, headlines that capture the attention, and layouts that was imaginative, it was nothing short of a space carnival in print. A moment where science and technology did not merely inform, but inspired.

It took me back to my younger days, when newspapers were windows to the world, quietly filling our minds with wonder, facts and possibility. Today, as I interact with students across institutions, I often hear a common concern: the reading habit among the new generation is in decline and there appears no clear remedy.

So here is my humble appeal to editors and media houses: Let there be a dedicated science and technology section in every newspaper, every single day. India is on the cusp of an extraordinary space era. From ambitious ISRO missions to private sector breakthroughs, this decade promises to redefine our relationship with space science. To nurture tomorrow’s Sarabhais, Kalams, Rakesh Sharmas and space entrepreneurs, we must keep curiosity alive, and newspapers can serve as that vital ignition.

Let us call this the , a mission to bring young minds back to print through the magnetism of science stories. And yes, I shall be on the lookout. The most striking and thoughtful efforts, I promise to share across my social platforms. Let us make science front page worthy every day.

And remember, NEWS can also mean: Nurturing Exploration With Science -- a simple idea with the potential to shape thinking, awaken curiosity and ignite futures.

Let someone somewhere back this dream.

As the capsule closes in on the International Space Station , it is heartening to see how India's scientific ecosystem is quietly and confidently scripting its own chapter in space research.

With onboard, India is not just a passenger on this ride. We are a partner, a participant, and a future ready crew. His presence will significantly bolster our mission, adding experiential depth to planning, life science payloads and long duration spaceflight goals.

From tardigrade survival to seed sprouting in micro-gravity, human tech interaction to cyanobacteria nitrogen utilisation, the scope of Indian payloads on is remarkable. These are not one off science projects. They are building blocks for future Indian space stations and deep space settlements.

This shift from being technology receivers to co creators is profound. It mirrors what former President Dr A P J Abdul Kalam once championed -- spinoffs for society, science for self reliance.

The mission will not only inspire a new generation of space-geeks and future space scientists, but also reignite the spirit within to dream deeper, aim farther.

I can visualise how schoolchildren across the length and breadth of India, especially in remote villages, will watch today's development with eyes wide open. It is this India I once belonged to. An India of dreams and aspirations.

We are not space tourists. We are space thinkers. Over to docking...

Thoroughly enjoyed this recent interview I gave to Asianet News as part of their series. The media plays a pivotal role in amplifying developments in space, defence and technology. The contribution of vernacular journalism, often overlooked, remains both significant and commendable.
Well researched questions invite layered answers, and it is this depth that makes such conversations truly meaningful and engaging. Here’s the link to the full interview with English sub-title:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z62zGYGo4og

ശാസ്ത്ര ഗവേഷണത്തിലൂടെ മാത്രം രാഷ്ട്രത്തിന് സാമ്പത്തിക അഭിവൃദ്ധി| Dr Somanath interview| Science Talk ശാസ്ത്ര ഗവേഷണത്തിലൂടെ മാത്രം രാഷ്ട്രത്തിന് സാമ്പത്തിക അഭിവൃദ്ധി| Dr Somanath interview| Science Talk A conversation with Dr S Somanath, former ISRO Chairma...

Had the privilege of addressing thousands of bright young minds at a special event organised by Kerala Finance Minister K N Balagopal in his Kottarakkara constituency, honouring meritorious students. I shared a few personal chapters -- what inspired me the most and how mentors shaped my path. The highlight, however, was the spirited Q&A session. The questions from students touched upon plane crashes, career prospects in India vs abroad, robotics and more.

I urged them to be mindful of how they use mobile data -- to pursue knowledge rather than squander time on games and distractions. As a small gesture, every student who posed a question received a surprise gift from my end, a token to keep the spark alive.



KN Balagopal

Attended Mikavu 2025, an event organised by Malayalam daily Janmabhumi in Thiruvananthapuram to honour meritorious Class X and Class XII students.

In my address, I touched upon a wide array of themes — from the Moon to Mars, from dreams to destiny, from the virtues of hard work to the power of self-belief. I also urged the young minds to stay alert to the half-baked truths that often circulate on social media, and underscored the continuing relevance of print journalism, even in the face of formidable challenges.

Truly enjoyed the lively exchange of ideas with the students towards the end of the session.



Janmabhumi

Over the last two days, many have reached out with questions about the most-awaited launch. Hope this reflection will answer them.
is not the absence of momentum, it is the presence of purpose. In science, as in life, patience is the quiet partner of precision. It tempers ambition with wisdom and transforms uncertainty into understanding. Patience is the quiet resolve behind every towering launch.
In the long arc of world space history, patience has prioritised safety over speed and taught scientists to wait without wavering. It has, time and again, turned every pause into an opening, every silence into strength.
In the laboratory of life, patience is the most underrated catalyst. It has healed egos, built institutions and seen humanity rise again from the edge of failure. For the scientist, patience is the unseen tool in the kit. For the leader, it is the shield that guards against haste. For a nation, it is the force that refines resolve.
The countdown will begin again. And it is only a matter of time before the universe aligns everything right. So, let us be patient!

Hello friends!

Here's the full-length podcast I recently did with , where we explore some of the most critical aspects of India’s space programme. We also delve into the strategic and the growing role of space assets in strengthening India’s defence preparedness. Do watch, share and let me know your thoughts:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=93QczLJri80

When Will India Put a Man on the Moon? Ft Dr. S. Somanath | FCTC Podcast | Episode 9 Welcome to From Code to Culture, a podcast by UnboxingBLR. Our 9th episode is in conversation with Dr. S. Somanath, former Chairman of ISRO (Indian Space Res...

Honoured to be part of the inaugural session of the workshop on “Onboard Trajectory Optimisation for System Automation” hosted by ACDOS and IISc Bangalore. It was a privilege to listen to Prof Radhakant Padhi deliver a masterful introduction to control and optimisation, alongside profound insights from Prof Maruti R Akella of the University of Texas at Austin. The room brimmed with energy: from bright young minds to passionate researchers and spirited members of India’s emerging space startups. A fine confluence of intellect and aspiration.

The spirit of inquiry is about having the courage to ask questions, to think critically and to pursue truth without fear. It is the foundation of all meaningful progress. A country that nurtures this mindset does more than build rockets and laboratories. It builds strong minds, responsible citizens and a powerful nation.

India has always drawn strength from her ability to blend knowledge with wisdom and use it for Lok Kalyaan. From ancient seers who studied the cosmos to the engineers who send missions to the Moon and beyond, we are a civilisation shaped by scientific pursuit and guided by the light of reason. In today’s world where misinformation travels faster than truth, scientific thinking and technology leadership become our most vital defence. It helps us choose wisely, act responsibly and innovate boldly. For a country of 1.4 billion aspirations, investing in science and technology substantially, building research institutions with changing times and inspiring technology leaders is the best way forward. It is the cornerstone of our shared future.

Chase your dreams with the precision of science and the wonder of space. For the sky is not the limit, it's only the beginning. Remember, every calculation, every failure, every pause and every late night is a step closer to the stars.

In my new role as Advisor (Space Technology) to the Government of Andhra Pradesh, I had the privilege of briefing Hon'ble Union Minister Shri Jitendra Singh yesterday, in the presence of Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Shri Chandrababu Naidu. We shared our collective vision to contribute to nation building by creating a hub at AP state for space manufacturing and innovation looking at the proximity of SHAR.
I am acutely aware of the immense potential of space technology for economy and security of our nation. With robust support from the Centre and the visionary leadership of Shri Naidu, I am convinced it is only a matter of time before Andhra Pradesh emerges as the definitive destination powering India’s next-generation space missions.



Nara Chandrababu Naidu