M. C. Dathan is an Indian space scientist and former director of the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC).[1][2][3][4] The Government of India honoured him, in 2014, by awarding him the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award, for his contributions to the fields of science and technology.[5] In May 2016, the Government of Kerala appointed MC Dathan as the scientific advisor to chief minister.[6][7]
Chandradathan started his career in 1972, by joining the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) where he worked for the SLV-3 project, the development of solid propellant formulations. He also contributed to the realisation of solid motors for SLV-3, ASLV and PSLV projects.[9] Later, Chandradathan took up the assignment of developing rocket nozzles primarily for solid motors. He became the head of the ablative nozzle production unit in 2000, where he remained till 2004. During this period, his team developed the flex nozzle for the S200 motor and the S200 booster for the GSLV Mk-III project.[9]
He was promoted to Chief Executive of the Solid Propellant Plant (SPROB) for the PSLV and GSLV boosters. In this position, Chandradrathan oversaw the establishment of a new Solid Propellant Plant (SPP), which was commissioned in 2008.[10]
Chandradathan became the Director of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, SHAR (SDSC), in 2008.[9][11][12] During his tenure as the Director, Chandradathan is reported to have contributed to the improvement of production levels of solid boosters. He is also credited with two ground tests for S200 segments of the GSLV Mk-III, expansion of the facilities, and the development of a new Mission Control Centre and Launch Control Centre.[9]
Chandradrathan is a recipient of many honours and awards, including Performance Excellence Award (2009) from ISRO, Outstanding Chemical Engineer Award (2009) from the Institution of Engineers (India) (IEI) and Individual Service Award (2006) from ISRO.[9]
Chandradathan has attended many seminars and conferences to give keynote addresses.[14] He has also published many articles in such journals of repute as the International Astronautical Federation.[15]
^ ab"Padma 2014". Press Information Bureau, Government of India. 25 January 2014. Archived from the original on 22 February 2014. Retrieved 28 October 2014.
