Mon Mar 17 17:52:44 UTC 2025: **IIT-Madras Inaugurates State-of-the-Art Fluid and Thermal Science Research Center**
CHENNAI, March 18, 2025 – The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) inaugurated a new state-of-the-art research facility focused on advancements in spacecraft and launch vehicle thermal management. The S. Ramakrishnan Centre of Excellence in Fluid and Thermal Science Research will conduct research on heat transfer, cooling systems, and fluid dynamics crucial for next-generation space technologies.
The center, housed within the Department of Mechanical Engineering, is named for S. Ramakrishnan, a distinguished IIT-M alumnus and Padma Shri recipient, who played a key role in India’s space program. The inauguration also saw the commissioning of the Arcot Ramachandran Seminar Hall.
ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan highlighted India’s achievements in cryogenic engine technology, emphasizing the country’s ability to develop three different engines, one of which is human-rated, in record time. He underscored the significance of this accomplishment, noting that only six countries possess this technology. Narayanan pledged ISRO’s complete support for IIT-M’s research endeavors, urging the institute to aim for Nobel Prizes.
The new center will tackle heat dissipation challenges in satellites and launch vehicles through experimental and numerical studies, advanced computational fluid dynamics simulations, and real-world validation. It will also foster collaboration between ISRO scientists and the institute, encouraging advanced degree pursuits. Professor Arvind Pattamatta will coordinate the center’s activities.
First Piper 