Somnath is the current Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), marking his appointment as the 10th individual to hold this prestigious position. He assumed the role after Dr. K. Sivan, who took charge in January 2018, and now carries the responsibility of leading ISRO into the future.

 S. Somanath Biography

Notably, Somnath’s exceptional work in launch vehicle design has garnered admiration and praise. His dedication to advancing launch vehicle systems engineering and his in-depth knowledge of structural design, structural dynamics, and pyrotechnics have played a pivotal role in the development and success of various launch vehicle projects. In January 2023, the Indian Space Research Organisation made a significant and highly anticipated announcement, appointing Somnath to the esteemed position of Chairman. This news brought immense joy and excitement to the followers of Indian space science, who eagerly anticipate the valuable contributions he will make in this prestigious role.

S. Somanath Picture

S. Somanath Young Age Picture

S. Somanath with Her Daughter and Wife (Valsala Somanath)

Family

His father’s name is Sreedhara Panicker, and his mother’s name is Thankamma.

S. Somanath Age

The Aerospace Engineer and Rocket Technologist was born in July 1963 in Aroor Alappuzha, Kerala. Now he is 59 years old.

Education

Somnath’s educational journey began with his schooling at St. Augustine’s High School in Aroor. He received his foundational education at this esteemed institution, laying the groundwork for his future academic pursuits. Following his schooling, he pursued his pre-university program at Maharaja College in Ernakulam, where he further honed his academic skills and expanded his knowledge.

Wife

The Rocket Technologist and Aerospace Engineer are married to Valsala, and they are a happily married and supportive couple. They have two children, a son, Madhav, and a daughter Malika.

S. Somanath Career

Somanath’s journey within the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) began in 1985 when he became a member of the esteemed Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre. Throughout his tenure at the organization, Somanath demonstrated his dedication and expertise in the field of space research and technology.

Over the years, Somanath climbed the ranks within the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, showcasing his capabilities and leadership skills. In 2010, he attained the position of Associate Director at the center. Additionally, he took on the crucial role of Project Director for the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III (GSLV Mk III) launch vehicle. This responsibility highlighted his exceptional project management abilities and his contribution to the development of advanced launch vehicles. Somanath’s career trajectory within ISRO further expanded when he held the position of Deputy Director of Propulsion and Space Ordinance until 2014.

Awards, Honours, Achievements

• In October 2020, he received an honorary doctorate from Centurion University Bhubaneswar.
• In October 2019, he won the National Aeronautics Prize from the Aeronautical Society of India.
• In July 2018, he received an honorary doctorate from Satyabhama University Chennai.
• In 2009, he also received the Performance Excellence Award from ISRO.
• He won a Gold Medal while pursuing the Master’s Programme.
• He received the Space Gold Medal from the Astronautical Society of India.
• He also won the Team Excellence Award for GSLV Mk-III realization.

S. Somanath Net Worth

Along with his new role, it is worth noting that estimates suggest his net worth to be around 2-5 crore INR

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