Key Takeaways
- Dr. Eknath Vasant Chitnis, veteran space scientist and Padma Bhushan awardee, passed away at age 100
- He was a key figure in India’s early space program and close associate of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai
- Chitnis played crucial roles in site selection for Thumba rocket launch and directed ISRO’s Space Applications Centre
Renowned Indian space scientist Dr. Eknath Vasant Chitnis passed away on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at his Pune residence. The Padma Bhushan recipient was 100 years old and had been unwell for several days before suffering a fatal heart attack.
Pioneering Contributions to Indian Space Program
Dr. Chitnis was instrumental in the formative years of India’s space exploration journey. He played a crucial role in the early development of the Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR), which later evolved into the Indian Space Research Organisation .
Among his most significant contributions was selecting the site for India’s first rocket launch at Thumba, Kerala. This landmark achievement marked the beginning of India’s space launch capabilities.
Leadership and Mentorship Legacy
From 1981 to 1985, Dr. Chitnis served as the second director of ISRO’s Space Applications Centre (SAC) in Ahmedabad. He was one of the last surviving associates of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, widely regarded as the father of India’s space program.
Dr. Chitnis also mentored the young Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, who would later become India’s Missile Man and President. His guidance helped shape a generation of Indian scientists.
The veteran scientist is survived by his son Dr. Chetan Chitnis, daughter-in-law Amika, and granddaughters Tarini and Chandini.
