PK Chandana, who launched India’s 1st private rocket, scored 51 in maths; later cleared JEE
The story of PK Chandana, Co-founder of Skyroot Aerospace, is a testament to the fact that success is not solely determined by one’s academic performance. Chandana, the man behind the launch of India’s first private rocket to space, was once an average student who struggled with mathematics, scoring a mere 51 marks in the subject. However, with the unwavering support of his father and his own determination, Chandana was able to turn his academic fortunes around and achieve greatness.
According to Deedy Das, Chandana’s father played a pivotal role in his son’s academic journey. Despite Chandana’s poor performance in mathematics, his father refused to give up on him. Instead, he got Chandana enrolled in IIT-JEE coaching, which proved to be a turning point in his life. The coaching not only helped Chandana improve his academic performance but also instilled in him a love for science and mathematics.
Chandana’s journey to success was not an easy one. He had to work hard to catch up with his peers, who had already gained a strong foundation in mathematics and science. However, with persistence and dedication, he was able to bridge the gap and eventually cleared the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) in 2007. This achievement earned him a spot at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, one of the most renowned institutions in the country.
Chandana’s experience at IIT-Kharagpur was a transformative one. The institution’s rigorous academic environment and talented faculty helped him develop a deep understanding of aerospace engineering, which would later become his passion. During his time at IIT-Kharagpur, Chandana was exposed to various aspects of aerospace engineering, including rocket propulsion, aerodynamics, and spacecraft design. These subjects not only fascinated him but also inspired him to pursue a career in the field.
After completing his graduation, Chandana went on to work with several organizations, including the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). These experiences further honed his skills and knowledge in aerospace engineering, preparing him for the challenges that lay ahead.
In 2018, Chandana co-founded Skyroot Aerospace, a private aerospace company that aimed to develop and launch India’s first private rocket. The company’s mission was to provide affordable and reliable access to space, enabling Indian startups and companies to launch their satellites and payloads into orbit. Chandana’s role as Co-founder and CEO of Skyroot Aerospace was a culmination of his years of hard work, dedication, and passion for aerospace engineering.
On November 18, 2022, Skyroot Aerospace made history by launching India’s first private rocket, Vikram-S, into space. The rocket, which was developed and built by Chandana and his team, carried three payloads into orbit, marking a significant milestone in India’s space program. The launch was a testament to Chandana’s vision, leadership, and technical expertise, and it paved the way for private companies to participate in India’s space sector.
Chandana’s story is an inspiration to millions of students and young professionals who struggle with self-doubt and lack of confidence. His journey shows that success is not solely determined by one’s academic performance, but by their passion, hard work, and determination. It also highlights the importance of supportive family and mentors, who can play a crucial role in helping individuals achieve their goals.
In conclusion, PK Chandana’s achievement is a testament to the power of perseverance and hard work. From scoring 51 marks in mathematics to launching India’s first private rocket into space, Chandana’s journey is a remarkable one. His story serves as a reminder that success is within reach, regardless of one’s background or academic performance. As India continues to make strides in the space sector, Chandana’s contributions will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of engineers, scientists, and entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams and push the boundaries of innovation.
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