New Delhi: As ISRO launched its 100th rocket, scientists are keeping a close eye on the condition of the 50-meter-tall rocket that is located at the second launch pad in Sriharikota.
Given that this was the first significant launch under his direction, Dr. V Narayanan, the recently appointed chairman of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), viewed it as a trial by fire.
Dr. V Narayanan: Man Behind India's Cryogenic Success
Dr. V Narayanan, an expert in cryogenic engines, has played a crucial role in India's space advancements. Cryogenic technology, which took India nearly 20 years to perfect, is now a key component of ISRO's rocket programs.
GSLV F-15: India's 17th Launch with an Indigenous Cryogenic Engine
The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle F-15 (GSLV F-15) marked its 17th successful launch with an indigenous cryogenic engine, also called Swadeshi.
Speaking to the media from the launch site, Dr. Narayanan expressed pride in India's technological advancements.
"It is a very complex technology to harness, and now India has mastered it," he said while admiring what he called Team ISRO's 100th beautiful baby—a 420-tonne rocket shining under the moonlight.
India’s Journey in Cryogenic Technology: A 20-Year Struggle
Dr. Narayanan recalled the January 5, 2014, launch of GSLV D-5, where he served as the associate vehicle director. He described the success of India's first indigenously developed cryogenic engine as a milestone in his career.
"It has been a fulfilling journey," he added.
ALSO READ: Delhi to Srinagar Vanda Bharat Train Trial Run, Now Reach Katra Station in Few Hours
ALSO READ: Republic Day Parade 2025 Creates History with Guinness World Record
Why Cryogenic Engines Are Crucial for Space Exploration
Cryogenic engines are the most efficient engines for launching satellites into space. They run on liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen, which provide higher thrust.
However, India's access to this advanced space technology was blocked in the past.
- The US pressured the USSR to deny India cryogenic engine technology.
- This led ISRO to develop its own cryogenic engine under Dr. Narayanan’s leadership.
- After two decades of research and development, ISRO finally succeeded.
ISRO’s Confidence in the 100th Launch
When asked if he was nervous about the 100th launch, Dr. Narayanan expressed confidence in India's capabilities:
"India has learned from its failures. I had no doubts that this mission would be successful."
ISRO Ensures Robustness in Every Rocket Launch
Dr. S Unnikrishnan Nair, director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Center in Thiruvananthapuram, assured that all ISRO launches undergo rigorous checks:
"It is as robust as the previous one. Similar to any other launch. We do everything we can to ensure every launch is successful."
Comments
All Comments (0)
Join the conversation