National 24 August 2026
National Space Day Observed Annually on August 23 in India
Why in the News?
India celebrates 'National Space Day' annually on August 23. In 2026, the country celebrated its 3rd edition of National Space Day.
Key Features / Major Points:
Historic Achievement: Marks the historic touchdown of the Chandrayaan-3 mission's Vikram lander and Pragyan rover near the lunar south pole on August 23, 2023.
Global Milestone: Made India the first nation to successfully land near the Moon's south pole and the fourth country overall to achieve a soft landing on the lunar surface. The landing site was named 'Shiv Shakti Point'.
Purpose: Declared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to honor ISRO scientists, showcase space innovations, and inspire youth towards STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers.
2026 Theme: The official theme for 2026 was "Towards Viksit Bharat: Innovating, Collaborating and Aspiring to Global Space Leadership".
Static GK Facts:
ISRO Establishment: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) was established on August 15, 1969, and is headquartered in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
Father of Indian Space Program: Dr. Vikram Sarabhai is widely regarded as the Father of the Indian Space Program.
One-Liner Quiz (All Competitive Exams):
Q: On which date is National Space Day observed annually in India?
A: August 23
Q: What is the name given to the Chandrayaan-3 landing site on the Moon?
A: Shiv Shakti Point
Q: What was the theme for National Space Day 2026?
A: Towards Viksit Bharat: Innovating, Collaborating and Aspiring to Global Space Leadership