Second National Space Day on August 23

Nellore: The second National Space Day would be celebrated on August 23, marking two years since India became the fourth country to land on the Moon and the first to reach its southern polar region through the Chandrayaan-3 mission.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had declared August 23 as National Space Day in 2023 to commemorate this milestone in India’s Space journey.

This year’s celebrations carry the theme “Aryabhatta to Gaganyaan: Ancient Wisdom to Infinite Possibilities,” highlighting India’s continuum of knowledge from ancient astronomy to modern human spaceflight. The main event would be held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, and streamed live on the ISRO website and YouTube channel.

The theme reflects the nation’s journey from Aryabhatta -- the pioneering mathematician-astronomer of the 5th Century CE, whose work laid the intellectual foundations of astronomy -- to Gaganyaan, the upcoming human spaceflight mission. “National Space Day is not just about technological achievements but about connecting our civilizational wisdom with future aspirations,” ISRO has stated.

Leading up to the New Delhi event, programmes will be organized across schools, universities and science institutions to showcase the nation’s achievements in Space technology, their societal benefits and the opportunities for public participation in Space programmes.

From the Vedic sky-watchers to today’s space scientists, the theme underscores how heritage and high-tech innovation continue to converge in India’s space story. The upcoming Gaganyaan mission is being seen as a leap that will carry Indian astronauts – Gaganyatris – beyond Earth, strengthening India’s role in global space exploration.

“National Space Day 2025 is a celebration of continuity – from Aryabhatta’s celestial calculations to India’s entry into human spaceflight. It is about inspiring generations and reaffirming India’s leadership in space,” said an ISRO release.