The decision by ISRO to skip the number 13 when numbering its rockets reflects a common cultural superstition surrounding the number in many societies, including Western and Indian cultures.
ISRO’s decision to skip the number ’13’ in naming its latest GSLV rocket, slated to carry the weather satellite INSAT-3DS, is a departure from conventional numbering practices. This choice reflects a cultural aversion to the number 13, often associated with bad luck. By avoiding this number, ISRO aims to circumvent any potential negative connotations and maintain confidence in the mission’s success.
ISRO’s decision to skip the designation ‘GSLV-F13’ for its upcoming rocket launch, despite the logical progression from the previous GSLV flight, has raised eyebrows among experts and observers. The deviation from the established sequence, which would have logically led to ‘GSLV-F13’, underscores the space agency’s cultural sensitivity and adherence to superstitions surrounding the number 13.
ISRO‘s departure from naming conventions extends beyond the GSLV series to its Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) missions as well. Following the launch of PSLV-C12, ISRO skipped the designation ‘PSLV-C13’ and proceeded directly to ‘PSLV-C14’ for its subsequent mission. This omission without explanation adds to the intrigue surrounding ISRO’s numbering practices and its avoidance of certain numerical designations.
The avoidance of certain numbers due to superstitions is not unique to ISRO but also observed by other space agencies like NASA. This practice mirrors NASA’s avoidance of the number ’13’ following the notorious failure of the Apollo-13 mission.
Superstitions and traditions hold significance in space exploration, as demonstrated by rituals observed during events like the send-off ceremony of the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) satellite. Representatives from both agencies adhered to their respective customs, with NASA presenting ISRO delegates with lucky peanuts, while ISRO officials performed traditional rituals like breaking coconuts for auspicious beginnings.
ISRO’s attention to auspicious timings extends beyond rocket naming conventions to the timing of launches themselves. Countdowns are meticulously scheduled to avoid inauspicious periods like Rahu Kaalam. Rituals and prayers are customary before missions, with officials often seeking blessings at revered temples to invoke divine support for successful outcomes. These practices reflect the deeply ingrained cultural and religious traditions that influence various aspects of ISRO’s operations.
Indeed, ISRO has demonstrated its ability to break from tradition when necessary, as evidenced by the successful launch of the Mars Orbiter Mission on a Tuesday, a day typically considered inauspicious in Indian culture. This decision underscores the agency’s commitment to prioritizing scientific objectives over superstitions. The mission’s remarkable success stands as a testament to ISRO’s dedication, expertise, and ability to achieve milestones regardless of cultural beliefs.
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