Dr. V Narayanan: The New Head of ISRO and His Remarkable Journey

The Indian government has appointed Dr. V Narayanan as the new Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), ushering in a new era for the agency at a time when India is cementing its position as a global space superpower. Dr. Narayanan, a renowned rocket scientist, succeeds S Somanath, under whose leadership ISRO saw significant advancements in accessibility and modernization.

Here’s an in-depth look at Dr. Narayanan’s inspiring journey, achievements, and vision for ISRO.

Early Life: Humble Beginnings

Dr. V Narayanan was born in the small village of Melakattuvilai in Tamil Nadu’s Kanyakumari district, into a modest family.

• Parents: His father, C. Vanniyaperumal, was a farmer, and his mother, S. Thangammal, was a homemaker.
• Education: Narayanan and his siblings attended a Tamil-medium school. It was only during his ninth grade that electricity reached his village.
• Despite these challenges, Narayanan excelled academically, topping his Class X board exams.

Academic Excellence: From IIT to Cryogenic Engineering

Dr. Narayanan’s pursuit of higher education laid the foundation for his illustrious career:

• IIT Kharagpur: In 1989, he earned his MTech in Cryogenic Engineering, securing the first rank and receiving a prestigious silver medal.
• PhD in Aerospace Engineering: He completed his doctoral studies in 2001 at IIT Kharagpur, focusing on cutting-edge aerospace technologies.

His expertise in cryogenic propulsion became pivotal for India’s advancements in space technology, contributing to missions like Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan, and the ongoing Aditya-L1 solar mission.

Career at ISRO

Dr. Narayanan’s association with ISRO spans over four decades, during which he played a key role in India’s space journey:

1. Joining ISRO (1984): He began his career at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), working on solid propulsion systems.
2. Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC): In 1989, he shifted focus to cryogenic propulsion, an area that would define his career.
   • His MTech thesis directly influenced the development of India’s Cryogenic Propulsion Systems, making the country self-reliant in this critical technology.
   • Under his leadership as Director of LPSC, he spearheaded innovations in semi-cryogenic propulsion and electric propulsion technologies.
3. Propulsion Roadmap for ISRO: Dr. Narayanan developed a comprehensive roadmap (2017-2037), outlining the agency’s propulsion advancements for two decades.

Notable Contributions to Indian Space Missions

Dr. Narayanan has been instrumental in several high-profile ISRO missions:

• Chandrayaan Missions: He contributed to the success of Chandrayaan-1, 2, and 3, which established India as a key player in lunar exploration.
• Mangalyaan: Played a vital role in India’s successful Mars Orbiter Mission, a milestone for the global space community.
• Aditya-L1 Mission: His expertise is aiding India’s first mission to study the Sun.

Awards and Accolades

Dr. Narayanan’s work has earned him numerous honors:

• Silver Medal (IIT Kharagpur): For securing the top rank in his MTech program.
• Gold Medal: From the Astronautical Society of India.
• National Design Award (2019): Recognizing his exceptional contributions to space technology.
• Distinguished Alumnus Award (IIT Kharagpur, 2018): For his remarkable achievements in aerospace engineering.
• Honorary D.Sc.: From Sathyabama University, Chennai (2017).

Additionally, he is a Fellow of the Indian National Academy of Engineering (INAE) and a member of numerous international space organizations, such as the International Astronautical Federation’s Space Propulsion Committee.

Publications and Research

• Over 1,200 internal reports and 50 journal/conference papers to his credit.
• Contributed to several books on aerospace engineering and propulsion technologies.

Looking Ahead: Vision for ISRO

As ISRO’s new head, Dr. Narayanan is expected to focus on the following:

• Advancing cryogenic and semi-cryogenic propulsion systems for future missions.
• Expanding India’s footprint in deep space exploration, including interplanetary missions.
• Strengthening ISRO’s role in commercial satellite launches and international collaborations.
• Nurturing young talent to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.

Dr. V Narayanan’s journey from a small village in Tamil Nadu to the pinnacle of India’s space program is a testament to perseverance, dedication, and innovation. As he takes over as ISRO’s chief, the nation eagerly anticipates the milestones that will define India’s space endeavors under his leadership.

India is undoubtedly poised for a brighter and bolder space future with Dr. Narayanan at the helm.