NEW DELHI: India’s space exploration program is set to soar to new heights as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) prepares for an ambitious lineup of missions under its new chairman, V. Narayanan. These include the Chandrayaan-4 lunar mission, the Gaganyaan human spaceflight project, and the development of an Indian space station.

A New Leader at ISRO

V. Narayanan officially assumed his role as ISRO Chairman and Secretary of the Department of Space, succeeding S. Somanath. Reflecting on his appointment, Narayanan expressed gratitude for the opportunity. 

Narayanan revealed that the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) had informed him of his appointment, and outgoing chairman Somanath personally congratulated him. “The PMO contacted me, and Somanath sir called to share the news. It’s an honor to follow in his footsteps,” Narayanan added.

Upcoming Milestones: Chandrayaan-4 and Beyond

Following the triumph of Chandrayaan-3, which achieved a historic landing on the moon’s south pole, ISRO is now gearing up for Chandrayaan-4. This mission aims to take lunar exploration a step further by collecting samples from the moon’s surface and returning them to Earth Narayanan said.

ISRO also continues to advance its human spaceflight mission, Gaganyaan. Preparations are in full swing at the Sriharikota launch site for the uncrewed module test flight. The agency also plans to launch a US commercial satellite using its Mark III vehicle, alongside the NVS-02 navigation satellite with the GSLV rocket later this month.

India’s Space Station: A 2028 Vision

One of ISRO’s most groundbreaking projects is the construction of an indigenous space station. The modular space station, comprising five components, is slated to have its first module launched by 2028. “The Prime Minister has approved the project. The first module is scheduled for deployment in 2028, marking a major leap in India’s space capabilities,” Narayanan announced.

ISRO’s Unwavering Momentum

ISRO recently launched the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) on December 30, demonstrating its technological prowess. The docking operation for this mission to be taken place on 9th January. These advancements highlight ISRO’s continuous momentum in cutting-edge space research and exploration.

More About The Scientist V Narayanan,

V Narayanan, a veteran scientist with nearly four decades of experience in rocket and spacecraft propulsion, has been named the new Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). He will also serve as Secretary of the Department of Space, succeeding the current chairman, S Somanath, on January 14, 2025.

His announcement was made through an official order from the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet. According to the notification, Narayanan's term will last for two years or until further orders, whichever comes earlier. The order highlights his appointment as a significant milestone for the organization, given his expertise and contributions to India's space programs.

A Distinguished Career in Propulsion Technology

Narayanan, currently the Director of ISRO's Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) in Valiamala, Kerala, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He joined ISRO in 1984 and has since worked in various capacities, making notable contributions to India's space exploration capabilities.

During his early career, he was involved in the development of solid propulsion systems for Sounding Rockets, Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle (ASLV), and Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC). His expertise extends to process planning, control, and the realization of advanced technologies, including ablative nozzle systems, composite motor cases, and igniter cases.

Leading LPSC

As the Director of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre, Narayanan has played a pivotal role in advancing propulsion technology for ISRO's ambitious space missions. The LPSC, headquartered in Thiruvananthapuram with a unit in Bengaluru, is a key facility responsible for developing propulsion systems for India's launch vehicles and satellites.

Vision for the Future

Narayanan's appointment comes at a time when ISRO is expanding its horizons with ambitious projects like Gaganyaan, India’s human spaceflight mission, and the exploration of Venus and beyond. His extensive experience and leadership are expected to further strengthen ISRO's position as a global leader in space technology.

Official Statement

The Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions issued an official order confirming V Narayanan's appointment. The directive stated, “The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the appointment of Shri V. Narayanan, Director of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) in Valiamala, Kerala, as Secretary of the Department of Space and Chairman of the Space Commission. This appointment is effective from January 14, 2025, for a period of two years or until further orders, whichever is earlier.”

This announcement underscores the government’s trust in Narayanan’s leadership and technical expertise to steer ISRO's ambitious projects, including advancing India's presence in global space exploration and strengthening its satellite technology capabilities.

Looking Ahead

As ISRO embarks on this new chapter, Narayanan’s leadership and the agency’s ambitious projects are set to propel India’s space program to unprecedented heights. With missions like Chandrayaan-4, Gaganyaan, and the space station, ISRO is reinforcing its position as a global leader in space exploration.