PK Chandana, who launched India’s 1st private rocket, scored 51 in maths; later cleared JEE
The story of PK Chandana, the Co-founder of Skyroot Aerospace, is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination. Chandana, the man behind the launch of India’s first private rocket to space, was not always a high-achieving student. In fact, he scored a mere 51 marks in mathematics, a subject that would later become the foundation of his successful career in aerospace engineering. But, as they say, “it’s not about where you start, it’s about where you finish.”
Chandana’s journey to success began in Visakhapatnam, where he grew up with a passion for science and mathematics. However, his academic performance in these subjects was not always impressive. According to Deedy Das, Chandana’s father didn’t give up on his son’s potential, even when he scored a lowly 51 marks in mathematics. Instead, he got Chandana enrolled in IIT-JEE coaching, where he could receive specialized guidance and support to improve his academic performance.
The decision to enroll Chandana in IIT-JEE coaching proved to be a turning point in his life. With the help of his coaches and mentors, Chandana began to develop a deeper understanding of science and mathematics. He started to enjoy the subjects, and his grades began to reflect his newfound interest. The hard work and dedication paid off, and in 2007, Chandana joined the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Kharagpur.
Chandana’s time at IIT-Kharagpur was a transformative experience that shaped his career aspirations and goals. He was exposed to a rigorous academic curriculum, which challenged him to think critically and solve complex problems. The experience also gave him the opportunity to interact with like-minded individuals who shared his passion for science and technology.
After completing his education at IIT-Kharagpur, Chandana went on to pursue a career in aerospace engineering. He worked with several organizations, including the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), where he gained valuable experience and expertise in rocket design and development. However, Chandana’s true ambition was to start his own company, where he could pursue his passion for space technology and innovation.
In 2018, Chandana co-founded Skyroot Aerospace, a private company that aims to develop and launch India’s first private rocket to space. The company’s mission is to make space technology accessible and affordable for a wide range of applications, including satellite launches, space exploration, and scientific research.
On November 18, 2022, Skyroot Aerospace made history by launching India’s first private rocket, Vikram-S, into space. The rocket, which was designed and developed by Chandana and his team, reached an altitude of 89.5 kilometers and marked a major milestone in India’s space program. The launch was a testament to Chandana’s vision and determination, and it demonstrated the potential of private companies to contribute to the country’s space industry.
Chandana’s story is an inspiration to many young students who may be struggling with their academic performance. It shows that with hard work, dedication, and the right guidance, anyone can achieve their goals and pursue their passions. As Chandana himself said, “I was an average student, but I had a passion for science and mathematics. I worked hard, and I was lucky to have the right people around me who supported me and guided me throughout my journey.”
In conclusion, PK Chandana’s journey from scoring 51 marks in mathematics to launching India’s first private rocket to space is a remarkable story of perseverance and determination. It highlights the importance of never giving up on one’s dreams and aspirations, even in the face of adversity. Chandana’s success is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and the right guidance, and it serves as an inspiration to many young students who are pursuing their passions in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
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