BENGALURU: The Government of India has appointed V Narayanan as the new Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) and secretary, department of space. Narayana will take charge from S Somanath on Jan 14, when the latter’s tenure at the helm ends.
According to an official order issued by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet on Jan 7, 2025, Narayanan will serve for a period of two years.
Narayanan currently serves as the Director of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) in Valiamala.
A distinguished scientist with nearly four decades of experience in rocket and spacecraft propulsion, Narayanan brings substantial expertise to his new position.
As LPSC Director, he played a crucial role in developing the CE20 Cryogenic Engine for GSLV Mk III, a vital component of India’s space program. Under his leadership, LPSC successfully delivered 183 Liquid Propulsion Systems and Control Power plants for various Isro missions.
His illustrious career includes significant contributions to key Isro projects, including the Aditya Spacecraft and GSLV Mk-III missions. His achievements have been recognised with several prestigious awards, including the Shri Award from the Astronautical Society of India and the Distinguished Alumni Award from IIT Kharagpur.
The appointment order, signed by Cabinet Secretary Manisha Saxena, has been communicated to all relevant government departments and ministries.