Kailasavadivoo Sivan - A Lifestory

Kailasavadivoo Sivan is a prominent Indian space scientist and engineer, widely recognized for his significant contributions to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). He served as the Chairman of ISRO from January 2018 to January 2022, a period marked by ambitious missions and advancements in India's space program. Born into a humble agricultural family in Tamil Nadu, Sivan's journey is an inspiring story of perseverance and dedication. He completed his Bachelor's degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the Madras Institute of Technology in 1980, followed by a Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore. He further obtained a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering from IIT Bombay in 2006.

Sivan joined ISRO in 1982 and quickly rose through the ranks, holding various critical positions. He played a crucial role in the development of cryogenic engines for India's space program, a technology vital for launching heavier satellites. He was the chief architect of the Reusable Launch VehicleTechnology Demonstrator (RLVTD), a significant step towards developing reusable launch vehicles. His expertise in mission planning, mission design, integration, and analysis is highly regarded.

During his tenure as Chairman, ISRO achieved several milestones, including the successful launch of Chandrayaan2, India's second lunar exploration mission. Although the lander module faced challenges during its final descent, the orbiter continues to provide valuable scientific data. Sivan's leadership was instrumental in advancing India's capabilities in satellite technology, launch vehicle development, and space exploration. His contributions have earned him numerous accolades, solidifying his place as a key figure in India's space endeavors.