The Physical Research Laboratory, a unit of the Department of Space based in Ahmedabad, has announced the naming of three newly discovered craters on Mars. The craters have been named after the former director of the laboratory, Devendra Lal, as well as the Indian cities of Mursan and Hilsa. This recognition comes after the discovery was made by PRL scientists in 2021, with the naming being approved by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) earlier this month.
The craters are located in the Tharsis volcanic region, a vast volcanic plateau positioned near the equator in the western hemisphere of the Red Planet. This area is renowned for being home to the largest volcanoes in the Solar System. The naming of these craters serves as a testament to the contributions of Devendra Lal and the significance of the Indian cities of Mursan and Hilsa in the realm of space exploration and planetary science.
The Tharsis volcanic region on Mars is an area of great interest for scientists due to its unique geological features. It is known for hosting some of the largest shield volcanoes in the solar system, including Olympus Mons, which is the tallest volcano and planetary mountain in the entire solar system. The presence of these craters named after an eminent cosmic ray physicist and two Indian cities further enhances the understanding of the region’s geological history and adds an Indian imprint to the exploration of Mars.
Devendra Lal, the former director of the Physical Research Laboratory, was a renowned cosmic ray physicist who made significant contributions to the understanding of cosmic rays and their implications for planetary research. His pioneering work has left a lasting impact on the field of space science and has been honored through the naming of one of the Martian craters. This recognition underscores the global recognition of Indian scientific contributions in the realm of space exploration.
The inclusion of the names of the Indian cities Mursan and Hilsa in the naming of the Martian craters also highlights the significance of these locations in the context of planetary exploration. This serves as a tribute to the rich scientific heritage of India and its growing role in space research and exploration endeavors.
The approval of the naming by the International Astronomical Union further emphasizes the global recognition and collaboration in planetary science and exploration. It showcases the significance of international cooperation in advancing our understanding of celestial bodies beyond Earth.
The naming of the Martian craters after Devendra Lal, Mursan, and Hilsa marks a significant milestone in India’s contributions to planetary science and serves as a testament to the country’s growing presence in the global space exploration arena. This historic naming not only honors the legacy of a distinguished physicist but also acknowledges the rich scientific heritage of India on an interplanetary scale.
In conclusion, the naming of these Martian craters after Devendra Lal, as well as the Indian cities of Mursan and Hilsa, holds profound significance in the realm of planetary science and underscores the global recognition of Indian contributions to space exploration. It serves as a symbol of India’s growing presence in the field of planetary research and highlights the country’s rich scientific legacy on a planetary scale.
