The Indian government has appointed Dr. V. Narayanan as the new Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Secretary of the Department of Space. This prestigious appointment will take effect on January 14, 2024, following the tenure of Dr. S. Somanath. Currently serving as the Director of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) in Thiruvananthapuram, Dr. Narayanan brings a wealth of experience to this pivotal role.
With nearly four decades of service at ISRO, Dr. Narayanan is a veteran scientist known for his contributions to advancing India’s space exploration capabilities. He has been a key figure in the development of critical technologies for some of India’s most important launch vehicles, including the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and the LVM3, which is recognized as India’s most powerful rocket.
Dr. Narayanan's expertise in cryogenic propulsion systems has been instrumental in shaping India's deep-space missions. He led the development of India’s indigenous cryogenic engines, overcoming numerous technological challenges. This breakthrough placed India among the few nations with mastery over this advanced propulsion technology, crucial for interplanetary exploration and heavy-lift capabilities.
Under Dr. Narayanan’s leadership, the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) has achieved significant milestones, including the development of the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV). This cutting-edge rocket is poised to play a critical role in future missions, such as deploying a space station and advancing lunar exploration efforts.
Dr. Narayanan’s academic journey reflects his deep-rooted expertise in aerospace engineering:
M.Tech in Cryogenic Engineering (1989): Dr. Narayanan completed this program at IIT Kharagpur, where he ranked first, earning a Silver Medal. This degree laid the foundation for his specialization in low-temperature technologies essential for rocket propulsion.
Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering (2001): This advanced degree equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of aerospace principles, enabling him to contribute to India’s ambitious space projects.
Dr. Narayanan’s illustrious career is marked by numerous accolades and recognitions:
Silver Medal from IIT Kharagpur for academic excellence during his M.Tech.
Gold Medal from the Astronautical Society of India (ASI).
ASI Award for significant contributions to Rocket and Related Technologies.
Team Award from the High Energy Materials Society of India for collaborative achievements.
Outstanding Achievement & Performance Excellence Awards from ISRO for his exceptional work.
Team Excellence Awards from ISRO for collaborative contributions to critical projects.
Honorary Doctorate (Honoris Causa) from Sathyabama University, Chennai.
Distinguished Alumnus Award (2018) from IIT Kharagpur.
National Design Award (2019) from the National Design & Research Forum of the Institution of Engineers (India).
National Aeronautical Prize (2019) from the Aeronautical Society of India (AeSI).
As Dr. Narayanan takes on the leadership of ISRO, his vision and expertise will be pivotal in guiding India’s space agency into a new era of innovation and exploration. From advancing the Next Generation Launch Vehicle to supporting ambitious missions like lunar exploration and a potential space station, his leadership will shape India’s position as a global space leader.