RAS question
The Sarabhai crater on the Moon is named after:
Correct answer: (B) Vikram Sarabhai, father of the Indian space programme.
The Sarabhai crater on the Moon is named after Vikram Ambalal Sarabhai, the father of the Indian space programme.
Explanation
The Sarabhai crater is not just a generic lunar feature with an Indian-sounding name; the USGS Gazetteer of Planetary Nomenclature lists Sarabhai as a crater on the Moon and gives its origin as Vikram Ambalal, an Indian astrophysicist who lived from 1919 to 1971. In the MCQ context, this identifies Vikram Ambalal Sarabhai, remembered as the father of the Indian space programme and as the founder of ISRO. The key is to connect the lunar nomenclature entry with the scientist's role in Indian space science: the crater's name honours Sarabhai, not another Indian physicist or technologist.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) Homi Bhabha is not the namesake here; the Sarabhai crater is named after Vikram Sarabhai.
- (C) A.P.J. Abdul Kalam is associated with missile technology, whereas this lunar crater's naming points to Vikram Ambalal Sarabhai.
- (D) C.V. Raman is known for the Raman Effect, but the Sarabhai crater entry is tied to Vikram Ambalal Sarabhai, not Raman.
Concept
This tests the Science and Technology theme of India's space programme and major scientific personalities. RAS often asks such names because institutions, missions and scientific honours link static GK with India's post-independence science development.