The Indian government has appointed V. Narayanan as the new chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), effective January 14, 2024. He will succeed S. Somnath, who is retiring after completing his term.
Narayanan, a distinguished scientist with nearly 40 years of experience in rocket and spacecraft propulsion, has held various significant positions within ISRO since joining in 1984. He currently serves as the Director of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), where he has been instrumental in the development of propulsion systems for multiple launch vehicles and satellites.
His academic credentials include a Master's degree in Cryogenic Engineering and a PhD in Aerospace Engineering from IIT Kharagpur, where he graduated with top honors.
During his tenure, Narayanan played a pivotal role in the development of key technologies, including solid propulsion systems and the cryogenic propulsion system, enhancing India's capabilities in space missions. He also led a committee that investigated the Chandrayaan-2 mission's challenges, contributing to the success of Chandrayaan-3.
With Narayanan at the helm, expectations are high for ISRO to continue its trajectory of achievements in space exploration, including upcoming missions like Gaganyaan and Chandrayaan-4.