Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on August 26, 2023 that the landing site of Chandrayaan 3′ s moon lander would be named Shiv Shakti. After Six month, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) officially recognized the name, granting it recognition.
IAU Approves “Statio Shiv Shakti” for Chandrayaan’s Vikram Lander
The International Astronomical Union (IAU) Working Group for Planetary System Nomenclature has approved the name “Statio Shiv Shakti” for the landing site of Chandrayaan’s Vikram lander. This decision comes six months after PM Narendra Modi initial announcement.
Chandrayaan 3: India’s Lunar Mission
Chandrayaan 3, is the India’s third lunar mission. This mission took off from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on July 14. Just after a month later, on August 23, the Vikram lander successfully touched the ground of the moon. This successful landing marked India as a historic achievement and become the first country to land near the lunar South Pole and the fourth to achieve a controlled lunar landing.
Understanding Chandrayaan 3 Landing site “Shiv Shakti”
PM Modi explained the significance of naming the landing site “Shiv Shakti.” He stated, “In Shiv, there is resolution for the welfare of humanity, and Shakti gives us strength to fulfill those resolutions.” The name is derived from Indian mythology. Which symbolizing the masculine (“Shiva”) and feminine (“Shakti”) duality of nature.
Exploring the Significance of Celestial Body Names
Planetary naming of the place is important like naming places on Earth. It helps the scientists to identify and discuss specific features on planets and moons. The IAU’s Gazetteer of Planetary Nomenclature officially published the name. By describing the meaning of the name which is taken from Indian mythology representing the dual nature of masculine and feminine energies.
Conclusion
The naming of celestial bodies and their features aids in scientific communication and exploration. With “Shiv Shakti” now officially recognized as the landing site of Chandrayaan 3’s Vikram lander. It stands as a testament to India’s advancements in space exploration and its rich cultural heritage.
