ISRO working on development of reusable launch vehicle technology: Narayanan

ISRO Advances Reusable Launch Vehicle Development

India's space ambitions are reaching new heights as the Indian Space Research Organisation pushes forward with reusable launch vehicle technology.

Dr V Narayanan, the ISRO chairman, shared this update during a conversation with reporters on the sidelines of a convocation at D Y Patil International University in Pimpri Chinchwad, Pune. He emphasized that the programme is still in its experimental phase but holds immense promise for making space missions more affordable. Reusable launch vehicles, which can be recovered and flown multiple times, represent a shift from traditional expendable rockets that are discarded after a single use. This technology is key to reducing the high costs associated with sending payloads into orbit, allowing India to compete more effectively on the global stage. Narayanan highlighted that such vehicles make launches significantly more cost-effective, a goal that aligns with ISRO's broader vision of sustainable space exploration.

The drive towards reusability comes at a time when space access is becoming increasingly vital for satellites, scientific research, and commercial ventures. ISRO's efforts build on years of testing and innovation, including recent demonstrations of engine re-ignition and throttling capabilities. These advancements pave the way for vehicles that can land back on Earth or be refurbished for future flights, much like practices adopted by leading global players. Narayanan made it clear that ISRO's focus remains on strengthening India's own capabilities rather than direct rivalry.

No Competition, Just National Strength

There is no doubt that reusable launch vehicles make launches more cost-effective. We are working towards reusable launch vehicle technology development right now. We don't consider this as competition with anybody. The Indian space programme is meant for India. Strength only respects strength, and without a vibrant space programme, no one will respect us.

In response to questions about private companies like SpaceX, Narayanan firmly stated that ISRO does not see them as competitors. The agency's priority is bolstering India's space programme for national benefit, fostering self-reliance in space technology. This mindset underscores a commitment to building a robust ecosystem that commands global respect. By developing indigenous solutions, ISRO aims to ensure that India has reliable access to space without depending on external providers. Recent ground tests, such as those on the Vikas engine for throttling and cryogenic engine restarts, demonstrate steady progress in this direction. These milestones are crucial for future missions requiring multiple engine firings during flight.

ISRO's approach also involves collaboration within India, including technology transfers to private industries for components like small satellite launch vehicles and advanced processors. This not only accelerates development but also grows the domestic space sector, creating jobs and innovation hubs.

Updates on Gaganyaan and Planetary Missions

Alongside RLV work, Narayanan provided reassuring updates on high-profile projects. The Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme, India's first crewed mission, remains on track for 2027, with three uncrewed flights slated beforehand. Both the current and next year have been designated as "Gaganyaan years" to intensify preparations, though exact dates for the initial uncrewed launch are yet to be set. This mission marks a historic step towards sending Indian astronauts into orbit.

On the planetary front, Chandrayaan-4 and Chandrayaan-5 have received approval and are eyed for around 2028, continuing India's lunar exploration legacy. The Shukrayaan mission to Venus is also advancing smoothly, promising new insights into our neighbouring planet's atmosphere. These efforts reflect ISRO's diverse portfolio, balancing human spaceflight with robotic probes. Recent successes, like high-thrust electric propulsion systems and indigenous processors for launch vehicles, further solidify the agency's technological foundation.

ISRO's reusable technology ties into larger plans, such as the Next Generation Launch Vehicle, which incorporates partial reusability in its boosters and stages. Developments like LOX-Methane engines and ceramic composites for vehicles like Pushpak are underway, aiming for dramatic cost reductions—potentially tenfold—in accessing low Earth orbit. These innovations position India for ambitious goals, including the Bharatiya Antariksh Station and crewed lunar landings.

In summary, ISRO's pursuit of reusable launch vehicle technology signals a transformative era for India's space programme, promising cheaper, more frequent missions while advancing Gaganyaan and planetary explorations. Chairman Narayanan's insights highlight a focused, self-reliant strategy that prioritizes national strength and innovation.