Moon could become the ‘next America’ for humanity’s future expansion, says M. Annadurai

Space scientist Mylswamy Annadurai on Saturday said that the moon might well become the “next America” for humanity’s future expansion.

Reflecting on India’s achievement in discovering water on the moon, Mr. Annadurai observed: “Columbus discovered America while searching for India. Centuries later, America could not detect water on the moon, but India did.“

Inaugurating the astronomy lab at Alva’s Schools, Puthige, Moodbidri, he said: “Muscle power may limit us, but mind power never does”.

He added that India succeeded in space exploration despite limited resources.

The former ISRO director said the newly established lab showcased India’s space journey from satellites and remote sensing to navigation, communication systems and landmark missions such as Chandrayaanand Mangalyaan. He hoped that the initiative would ignite curiosity among young minds and encourage them to question, innovate and explore new scientific frontiers.

Speaking about India’s scientific progress, Mr. Annadurai drew parallels with the rise of Indian chess prodigies emerging from school ecosystems. “If schools can produce world-class grandmasters, they can equally nurture future scientists,“ he said, emphasising the need for curiosity-driven learning and intellectual courage among students.

Encouraging students to think beyond conventional learning, he reminded them that scientific progress begins with a question. “With an open mind, open eyes and open ears, you can find your own path and make your presence meaningful to the world.”

Ramesh Bhat, convener of the Amateur Astronomers Club, Sri Mahaveer College, Moodbidri, said India has achieved what even America once could not in space exploration, proving the world-class capability of ISRO scientists. He noted that Indian expertise in satellite technology is globally recognised, with nations seeking collaboration not only for scientific skill but also for India’s cost-efficient launch systems.

Alva’s Education Foundation managing trustee M. Vivek Alva said most of the ISRO scientists hail not from elite science institutes but from rural backgrounds, proving that talent thrives beyond metros. Citing Mr. Annadurai as an example of innovation emerging from grassroots India, he urged students to embrace involvement, teamwork and creativity.