Sat Jan 11 20:00:00 UTC 2025: ## ISRO Names V. Narayanan as New Chairman

**BENGALURU, January 12, 2025** – The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced the appointment of V. Narayanan as its new chairman, effective January 14. Narayanan, a veteran rocket and spacecraft propulsion expert and current head of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), succeeds S. Somanath, whose term was widely expected to be extended.

Narayanan’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for ISRO, as it navigates ambitious projects under its “Space Vision 2047” initiative. These include the Gaganyaan human spaceflight program, the Chandrayaan-4 lunar mission, the development of the Bharatiya Antariksha Station (India’s own space station), and the goal of landing an Indian on the moon by 2040. Simultaneously, ISRO is adapting to the liberalization of the Indian space sector through the 2023 Space Policy, which encourages private sector participation.

With a 40-year career at ISRO, Narayanan brings extensive experience in propulsion systems, having played a key role in numerous missions, including the Chandrayaan series and the development of the cryogenic upper stage for the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). His expertise in cryogenic engineering, earned through an M.Tech from IIT Kharagpur and a PhD in aerospace engineering, makes him uniquely suited to lead ISRO’s future endeavors.

While some see his long tenure at the LPSC as a potential limitation given the multifaceted nature of modern space technology, his deep understanding of ISRO’s inner workings and his proven track record are significant advantages. As chairman, Narayanan will be tasked with steering ISRO through a period of rapid growth and increased competition in the global space industry, including fostering collaboration with burgeoning Indian space-tech startups.

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