V Narayanan, an eminent rocket scientist with nearly four decades of experience, has been appointed as the Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Secretary of the Department of Space, according to a report by The Press Trust of India. His two-year term begins on January 14, 2025, succeeding S Somanath, whose tenure concludes after three years.
In his first remarks as Chairman, Narayanan outlined several key upcoming missions for ISRO, including Chandrayaan-4, the Gaganyaan human spaceflight program, and India’s own space station project. He described ISRO as being in a "successful phase," with significant advancements underway.
Narayanan highlighted the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX), which launched on December 30, 2024. The docking phase of this mission is scheduled for January 9, 2025. Additionally, ISRO is preparing to launch the navigation satellite NVS-02 aboard a GSLV rocket later this month.
Regarding the Gaganyaan mission, Narayanan confirmed that work is progressing on the uncrewed module and rocket assembly at the Sriharikota launch center. He also mentioned plans to launch a commercial satellite for the United States using ISRO's Mark III vehicle.
On future lunar exploration, Narayanan revealed that Chandrayaan-4 aims to land on the Moon’s south pole and return with samples, building on the success of Chandrayaan-3, which made India the first country to achieve a landing in this region.
Narayanan also shared details about India’s space station project, which has received approval from the Prime Minister. The space station will consist of five modules, with the first module planned for launch in 2028.
Narayanan, who joined ISRO in 1984, previously served as the Director of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC). He is known for his expertise in rocket and spacecraft propulsion, including his role as Project Director for the C25 Cryogenic Project of the GSLV Mk III.
Reflecting on his new role, Narayanan expressed gratitude, calling it an honor to lead ISRO. He noted that the information about his appointment was conveyed to him by the Prime Minister’s Office, as well as by outgoing Chairman S Somanath.
The announcement of Narayanan's appointment was made by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet.
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