INDIA: The 74th International Astronautical Congress recently took place in Baku, Azerbaijan. Popular science personalities from ISRO to NASA attended the event. Space microbiologist Srishti Suresh Patil, hailing from India, participated in the prestigious science conference.
The International Astronautical Congress, a worldwide event held annually, represents a premier global gathering of experts in the field of space science. This prestigious conference features a comprehensive program encompassing lectures and seminars delivered by leading researchers and seasoned practitioners from across the globe. Distinguished figures associated with space exploration and research, hailing from various corners of the world, converge to participate in this significant event.
The conference was organized from October 2 to October 6, which saw the participation of over 100 nations. Renowned scientists, researchers, academics, astronauts, and a few dignitaries from the field were also present.
ISRO Chairman S. Somnath, all of the Chandrayaan-3 mission scientists, NASA’s lead engineer A. C. Charania, and iSpace founder Takeshi Hakamada were among the prominent figures gathered at the occasion.
A Vidarbha native at the International Astronautical Congress
A native of Vidarbha’s Bhandara Gondia, Srishti Suresh Patil got the opportunity to participate at the 74th International Astronautical Congress. She is a space microbiologist by profession, employed at the Australian Research Space Institute.
Srishti possesses a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Studies from Nagpur University, and she holds a Master’s Degree in Biodiversity from Abasaheb Garware College, an institution affiliated with Pune University. In addition to her academic achievements, she has successfully completed several certificate courses in the field of space research.
Srishti’s research on “Orcus Patera”, an elliptical depression near Mars’ equator, earned her a way into the science event. Her research was chosen for presentation by a committee of the 74th International Astronautical Congress.
Srishti also met notable individuals, including astronauts from NASA and Blue Origin, Julien Lamami, chairman of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency Hiroshi Yamakawa, and space specialists from internationally recognized universities. These dignitaries all acknowledged and valued the progression of her research.
Sharing her experience at the International Astronautical Congress, she said, “I got an opportunity to present my research on Mars’ ‘Orcus Patera’, at this international conference. Meanwhile, one of the most exciting moments of my experience was when I met Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) President S. Somnath.”
“I told them about my research experience. I also had the opportunity to interact with some other important people in the space industry. It was an unforgettable experience for me. This experience will be of great benefit to my further research,” she concluded.
Srishti’s inclusion as a participant in this conference serves as a testament to the significance and quality of her research, underscoring its contribution to the academic discourse within her field.
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