Vikram Sarabhai Medal
Why in News?
- Prof. Annapurni Subramaniam, Director of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bengaluru, has been awarded the COSPAR Vikram Sarabhai Medal – 2026 at the COSPAR Scientific Assembly held in Florence, Italy.
- She has become the first Indian woman scientist and fourth Indian overall to receive this prestigious international honour for her outstanding contributions to space research.
About the Vikram Sarabhai Medal
- The Vikram Sarabhai Medal is an international award jointly instituted by the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
- It was instituted in 1990 in honour of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, regarded as the Father of the Indian Space Programme.
- The medal recognizes outstanding contributions to space research in developing countries.
- It is presented during the COSPAR Scientific Assembly, held every two years.
Why was Prof. Annapurni Subramaniam Honoured?
- She was recognized for her pioneering research in stellar populations and galaxy evolution.
- She has made significant contributions to space astronomy, particularly through India's AstroSat mission and the Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (UVIT).
- Her work has strengthened India's global standing in astrophysics and space science.
Key Highlights
- Recipient (2026): Prof. Annapurni Subramaniam.
- Current Position: Director, Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bengaluru.
- Historic Achievement: First Indian woman scientist to receive the medal.
- Indian Recipients So Far:
- Prof. U. R. Rao (1996)
- Prof. Gurbax Singh Lakhina (2014)
- Prof. Anil Bhardwaj (2024)
- Prof. Annapurni Subramaniam (2026)
About COSPAR
- Full Form: Committee on Space Research (COSPAR).
- Established: 1958.
- Headquarters: Paris, France.
- Parent Body: International Science Council (ISC).
- Objective: Promote international cooperation in space research and facilitate the free exchange of scientific knowledge.
Significance
- Recognizes excellence in space science and astronomy among researchers from developing countries.
- Enhances India's reputation in planetary science, astrophysics, and space exploration.
- Encourages international collaboration in peaceful uses of outer space.
- Highlights India's growing contribution to global space research beyond launch capabilities.
