Guide to Becoming a Space Scientist in ISRO

A guide to becoming a space scientist in ISRO, the national space agency of India

The National Space Organization of India is known as ISRO or Indian Space Research Organization. It is responsible for various space missions, such as Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan, Gaganyaan, and many more. ISRO also operates a network of satellites for communication, navigation, remote sensing, and meteorology. Working as a space scientist in ISRO is a dream for many students who are passionate about space exploration and research.

Eligibility Criteria for Space Scientists in ISRO

To become a space scientist in ISRO, you need to have a strong academic background in science, mathematics, and engineering. You also need to have a keen interest and curiosity in space science and technology. Here are some of the basic eligibility criteria for space scientists in ISRO:

You should have completed your 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects. You should have obtained a bachelor's degree in engineering (B.E./B.Tech) or science (B.Sc.) from a recognized university or institution. You should have obtained a master's degree or a Ph.D. in science or engineering from a reputable college or institution. The preferred fields of study are aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, electronics engineering, computer science, physics, chemistry, mathematics, astronomy, astrophysics, geology, meteorology, etc. You should have scored at least 65% marks or equivalent CGPA in your bachelor's and master's degrees. You should be below 35 years of age at the time of applying.

Entrance Exams and Courses for Space Scientists in ISRO

To become a space scientist in ISRO, you need to clear some entrance exams and courses that test your knowledge and skills in engineering and science. Here are some of the entrance exams and courses you need to take:

JEE Main and JEE Advanced: These are the national-level entrance exams for admission to undergraduate engineering programs in IITs, NITs, IIITs, and other reputed institutions. You need to clear these exams to pursue B.E./B.Tech in engineering, aeronautical engineering, or a related profession.

GATE: This is the national-level entrance exam for admission to postgraduate engineering programs in IITs, NITs, IIITs, and other reputed institutions. You need to clear this exam to pursue an M.E./M.Tech or Ph.D. engineering for aerospace or a related discipline.

IIST: This is the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology, which is an autonomous institution under the Department of Space (DoS). It offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in various fields of space science and technology. You need to clear an admission test conducted by IIST to get admission to its courses.

ISAT: This is the Indian Space Academy Test conducted by DoS for the recruitment of scientists/engineers for ISRO. You need to clear this test to be eligible to apply for space scientist positions in ISRO.

Recruitment Process for Space Scientists in ISRO

To become a space scientist in ISRO, you need to go through a recruitment process that involves screening of applications, written tests/interviews, medical examinations, and training. Here are some of the steps involved in the recruitment process:

Screening of Applications: Based on your academic qualifications and marks obtained in entrance exams/courses, your application will be screened by ISRO. Only shortlisted candidates will be called for further rounds of selection.

Written Test/Interview: Depending on the post applied for, you will have to appear for either a written test an interview, or both conducted by ISRO. The written test will consist of objective-type questions on technical subjects related to your field of study. The interview will assess your knowledge, skills, aptitude, personality, and suitability for the job.

Medical Examination: After clearing the written test/interview, you will have to undergo a medical examination conducted by authorized medical officers. You will have to meet the physical fitness standards prescribed by ISRO.

Training: After clearing the medical examination, you will have to undergo training at various centers of ISRO. The duration and content of training will vary depending on the post applied for. The training will include theoretical as well as practical aspects of space science and technology.