Bengaluru, January 8 — The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has announced the appointment of Dr. V. Narayanan as its new chairman. Dr. Narayanan, a distinguished senior scientist, will officially take charge on January 14, succeeding the current chairman, Dr. S. Somnath, who will retire after an illustrious tenure.
The announcement, made on Tuesday, marks a significant leadership transition in India’s prestigious space agency. Dr. V. Narayanan, currently serving as the Director of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), has been at the forefront of developing critical technologies for ISRO’s ambitious space missions.
A Proven Track Record of Excellence
With a career spanning nearly four decades, Dr. Narayanan has held various pivotal roles within ISRO. His tenure as the Director of LPSC has been instrumental in delivering 183 Liquid Propulsion Systems and Control Power Plants for numerous missions. His technical expertise and visionary leadership have strengthened India’s capabilities in satellite launches and deep-space exploration.
Dr. Narayanan has made noteworthy contributions to high-profile missions, including:
- Chandrayaan-2 and Chandrayaan-3, India’s moon exploration programs.
- Aditya-L1, India’s first solar mission.
- GSLV Mk-III (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle), now renamed as LVM-3, India’s heavy-lift launch vehicle.
His strategic guidance has been pivotal in advancing propulsion technologies, a critical component of space exploration vehicles.
Leadership Vision and Future Prospects
Under Dr. Narayanan’s stewardship, ISRO is expected to continue its ambitious trajectory, focusing on deep-space missions, satellite technology advancements, and collaborations in the global space community. His appointment comes at a pivotal time as India strengthens its role in commercial satellite launches and innovative space exploration projects.
Outgoing chairman Dr. S. Somnath leaves behind a legacy of remarkable achievements, including the successful Chandrayaan-3 mission, which placed a lander on the Moon’s south pole. Dr. Narayanan’s vast experience and innovative approach are poised to build upon these successes, driving ISRO into a new era of scientific and technological breakthroughs.
The transition of leadership within ISRO reaffirms its commitment to innovation, excellence, and global leadership in space research. As Dr. V. Narayanan prepares to assume his role on January 14, the scientific community and the nation look forward to the groundbreaking missions and technological advancements that will define his tenure.
