On January 14, 2025, Dr. V. Narayanan, a distinguished scientist and pioneer in India’s space propulsion systems, assumed charge as Secretary, Department of Space, Chairman of the Space Commission, and Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). His extensive contributions to India’s space programs have positioned him as a key figure in the country’s advancements in space technology and exploration.
Dr. Narayanan’s career at ISRO spans four decades, beginning in 1984. Prior to his new role, he served as the Director of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), where he led the development of cutting-edge propulsion systems, including liquid, semi-cryogenic, and cryogenic technologies for launch vehicles, as well as chemical and electric propulsion systems for satellites.
One of Dr. Narayanan’s most notable achievements was his leadership in the development of India’s cryogenic propulsion systems. When international sanctions denied India access to critical cryogenic technology, he spearheaded efforts to design and develop indigenous systems, resulting in the operationalization of the Cryogenic Upper Stage (CUS) for the GSLV Mk-II vehicle. This breakthrough elevated India into an elite group of nations with advanced cryogenic technology.
As Project Director for the C25 cryogenic stage of the LVM3 launch vehicle, Dr. Narayanan played a pivotal role in its maiden successful launch and subsequent missions, including Chandrayaan-2 and Chandrayaan-3. His leadership was instrumental in delivering the propulsion systems that enabled India’s historic soft landing near the Moon’s south pole, making India the first nation to achieve this milestone.
Dr. Narayanan’s contributions extend to the Gaganyaan mission, India’s ambitious human spaceflight program. He led the development and certification of key systems, including human-rated launch vehicles, crew module propulsion systems, and life-support technologies. He also oversaw the readiness of the LVM3 vehicle and contributed to the certification process as Chairman of the Human Rated Certification Board.
In addition to his technical contributions, Dr. Narayanan has been a driving force behind the development of next-generation propulsion systems, such as LOX-Methane engines and semi-cryogenic rocket systems, to enhance payload capacity and enable future deep-space missions.
Hailing from a humble background, Dr. Narayanan’s academic achievements include a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering and an M.Tech in Cryogenic Engineering from IIT Kharagpur, where he earned top honors and was later recognized as a Distinguished Alumnus. His academic research laid the foundation for India’s advancements in cryogenic propulsion.
Throughout his career, Dr. Narayanan has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the APJ Abdul Kalam Award, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister’s Award for Chandrayaan-3, and the Laurels for Team Achievement for Chandrayaan-3 by the International Academy of Astronautics.
As he takes the helm at ISRO, Dr. Narayanan brings a wealth of experience, a legacy of innovation, and a vision to propel India’s space program to greater heights. His leadership is expected to strengthen India’s position as a global leader in space exploration and technology development.