The demise of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam in 2015 sent shockwaves across the nation. He passed away after suffering a heart attack in the middle of a lecture he was delivering in Shillong. Lovingly called the Missile Man, and People’s President, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam was an inspiration to many, and still is. He contributed immensely towards India’s space developments, and also authored many inspiring books. Currently, the entire world is talking about Oppenheimer and the consequences of dabbling into the wrong side of science. So, take a look at Kalam sir’s scientific achievements to know how the direction of scientific study yields positive momentous results.
1. Efforts in making India’s first SLV
India developed its first Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV) under the guidance and leadership of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam. He was at ISRO after getting transferred from Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and was made the project manager of India’s first Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-III). It was this vehicle that successfully launched the Rohini satellite in orbit near Earth.
2. Story behind the title Missile Man
In 1992, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam re-joined DRDO as a director and this is when he started the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program. It is under this programme that research on comprehensive missiles is conducted.
3. Pokhran Nuclear Tests
The late Dr APJ Abdul Kalam spear-headed India’s first nuclear tests in Pokhran which gave the country the title of a nuclear-armed state.
4. He was the Chief Scientific Advisor
It was in the year 1999 that Kalam sir was appointed as the Principal Scientific Advisor of our country. He was also the scientific advisor to Sharad Pawar who was the Defence Minister in 1992.
5. Headed development of missiles
Dr APJ Abdul Kalam played an important role in the development of the indigenous missiles Agni and Prithvi.
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6. Piloted a fighter plane
He was also the first Indian President to fly a fighter plane which led to him designing and developing India’s first hovercraft named Nandi.
So, which of these scientific achievements were you aware of?