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 stellar student. In fact, he scored a mere 51 marks in mathematics, a subject that would later become the foundation of his successful career. However, with the support of his father and his own hard work, Chandana was able to turn his academic fortunes around and achieve great things.
According to Deedy Das, Chandana’s father played a significant role in his son’s academic journey. Despite Chandana’s average performance in school, his father did not 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 helped Chandana improve his academic performance, and he began to develop a love for science and mathematics. This newfound passion would eventually lead him to pursue a career in aerospace engineering.
In 2007, Chandana joined IIT-Kharagpur, one of the most prestigious engineering institutions in India. It was during his time at IIT-Kharagpur that Chandana’s interest in aerospace engineering deepened. He was fascinated by the concept of space exploration and the potential of private companies to contribute to this field. After completing his graduation, Chandana worked with several companies, including Tata Aerospace and Defence, before deciding to start his own venture.
In 2018, Chandana co-founded Skyroot Aerospace, a private company that aimed to develop and launch rockets into space. The company’s mission was to make space technology accessible and affordable for everyone. With a team of talented engineers and a clear vision, Skyroot Aerospace set out to achieve the impossible.
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 built by the company, reached an altitude of 89.5 kilometers and marked a significant milestone in India’s space program. The launch was a testament to the hard work and dedication of Chandana and his team, who had overcome numerous challenges to achieve their goal.
Chandana’s story is an inspiration to many young students who may be struggling with their academics. It shows that with the right support and mindset, anyone can achieve their dreams, regardless of their background or academic performance. As Chandana himself said, “I was not a topper in my school, but I had a passion for science and mathematics. I worked hard, and my father supported me throughout my journey.”
Chandana’s journey is also a reflection of the changing landscape of India’s space program. With the government opening up the space sector to private companies, there are now more opportunities than ever for entrepreneurs and innovators to contribute to this field. Skyroot Aerospace is just one example of the many private companies that are working to develop new space technologies and launch services.
In conclusion, PK Chandana’s story is a reminder that success is not solely determined by academic performance. With hard work, determination, and the right support, anyone can achieve their goals and make a meaningful contribution to their field. As India continues to push the boundaries of space exploration and technology, stories like Chandana’s will serve as an inspiration to many young people who are passionate about science, mathematics, and innovation.
About the Author
