V Narayanan has been appointed as the new chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), succeeding S Somanath. With nearly four decades of experience in rocket and spacecraft propulsion, Narayanan’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.

Narayanan joined ISRO in 1984 and started his career working on solid propulsion systems for Sounding Rockets and the Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle (ASLV) at Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC). Over the years, he contributed to major missions like the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), helping design and develop components like ablative nozzle systems and composite motor cases.

Currently, he serves as the Director of ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), where he oversees advancements in cryogenic and liquid propulsion technologies.

V NARAYANAN'S ACADEMIC JOURNEY

 

Narayanan’s educational journey is equally impressive. He completed his MTech in Cryogenic Engineering from IIT Kharagpur, graduating with first rank and earning a silver medal.

In 2001, he received his PhD in Aerospace Engineering from the same institution.

In recognition of his contributions, he has been awarded an honorary Doctor of Science degree by Sathyabama University, Chennai, and the Distinguished Alumnus Award by IIT Kharagpur.

V NARAYANAN'S AWARDS AND HONOURS

Narayanan has received numerous accolades, including:

• Gold medal from the Astronautical Society of India (ASI)
• National Design Award (2019) from the Institution of Engineers (India)
• National Aeronautical Prize (2019) from the Aeronautical Society of India