Rocket scientist V. Narayanan has been appointed as the new chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), set to take over from S. Somanath on January 14, 2025. This announcement was made by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet and marks a significant transition for India’s premier space agency.
Dr. Narayanan is a distinguished scientist with nearly 40 years of experience in the Indian space sector, specializing in rocket and spacecraft propulsion. He currently serves as the Director of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) in Valiamala, Kerala, a key facility responsible for developing propulsion systems for various ISRO missions.
Professional Achievements
- Cryogenic Engine Development: Narayanan played a pivotal role in developing India’s cryogenic engine technology, which was previously denied to the country. His contributions have made India one of six nations with advanced cryogenic propulsion systems.
- Leadership Roles: He has served as the Director of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) since 2018, overseeing critical projects related to liquid and cryogenic propulsion systems.
- Chandrayaan Missions: Narayanan was instrumental in analyzing failures during the Chandrayaan 2 mission and contributed to the subsequent success of Chandrayaan 3.
Future Plans as ISRO Chairman
As he steps into his new role, Narayanan has expressed a commitment to advancing India’s presence in space. His immediate focus will be on several key projects:
- Gaganyaan Mission: Leading India’s first human spaceflight program.
- Chandrayaan-4 Mission: Continuing India’s lunar exploration efforts.
- Bharatiya Antariksha Station: Development of India’s own space station.
- Mars and Venus Missions: Planning for future missions to Mars and Venus.
Statement on Responsibilities
In an interview, Narayanan described his new assignment as a “great responsibility” and an “opportunity to follow in the footsteps of stalwarts who led ISRO over the decades.” He emphasized the importance of collaboration with private players and startups to enhance India’s capabilities in the space sector.
Conclusion
V. Narayanan’s extensive experience and leadership roles within ISRO position him well to lead the organization through a transformative period. With ambitious projects on the horizon, his tenure promises to be pivotal for India’s aspirations in space exploration.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on current reports and industry analyses.
