We were denied access to tech… Chandrayaan-3 landing changes that permanently: Former ISRO chief K Kasturirangan

“This (landing) capability means we are at the forefront of this technology. And, therefore, we will be part of all decision-making related to future planetary explorations, and even extraction of resources from space. We are naturally part of the club that formulates these future policies,” Kasturirangan said in an interview with The Indian Express.

“This is significant, because in the past we have suffered by being kept out of such clubs. We have been denied access to technology — in atomic energy, in space, and other critical areas. We were kept out because we did not have our own capabilities and were, in some ways, dependent. The Moon landing changes that permanently,” he said.

“Whether someone agrees with it or not, space capabilities will occupy a central place in deciding the equations between countries in the 21st century… The important thing is that we should be able to participate and contribute on equal terms… and play a more decisive role in space-related international decision-making processes. Chandrayaan-3 gives us the confidence and the capability,” Kasturirangan said.

He said the 21st century would be about more deep space explorations, and India was poised to play a key role. “Being the third or the fourth country to land on moon, and that too in the difficult terrain of the polar regions, India must become an active participant in this endeavour,” he said.