V Narayanan is set to take the helm of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) as its new chairman, succeeding S Somanath. The Union government announced this new leadership change on Tuesday. Narayanan will also serve as the secretary of the Department of Space, a dual role that underscores his pivotal position in shaping India’s space future.

Narayanan will take the office on January 14 and guide ISRO for the next two years or until further notice, as per the Cabinet’s appointments committee. Known for his expertise and visionary approach, Narayanan’s appointment signals a bold new chapter in India’s space exploration journey. Here’s some interesting facts about this rocket scientist that you definitely do not know:

V Narayanan – A space scientist with many hats

Narayanan is a distinguished space scientist and also holds expertise in rocket and spacecraft propulsion, bringing nearly four decades of trailblazing experience to the table. Since joining ISRO in 1984, he has worn many hats, ultimately rising to lead the prestigious Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC).

An IITian, gold medalist, and much more

Narayanan, an alumnus of IIT Kharagpur, is a standout achiever with a remarkable academic and professional journey. He earned his M.Tech in Cryogenic Engineering in 1989, securing the first rank, and went on to complete his Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering in 2001. His exceptional accomplishments have earned him several prestigious accolades, including the Silver Medal from IIT Kharagpur, the Gold Medal from the Astronautical Society of India (ASI), and the ASI Award for Rocket and Related Technologies.

Multiple honours from ISRO

Narayanan has received multiple honors from ISRO, including the Outstanding Achievement & Performance Excellence Awards and the Team Excellence Award, alongside recognition from the High Energy Materials Society of India.

His work played a key role in positioning India as one of just six nations globally with advanced and high-performance cryogenic propulsion systems, achieving self-reliance in this critical technology. Additionally, he made significant contributions to spacecraft propulsion, including shaping ISRO’s Propulsion Roadmap for the next two decades.

A leading force in India’s space mission

Narayanan stands as one of ISRO’s most distinguished scientists, holding the esteemed APEX Scale and serving as its senior most director. His leadership extends to pivotal roles, including Chairman of the Project Management Council for the Space Transportation System (PMC-STS), where he oversees crucial decisions in all launch vehicle projects. Additionally, he chairs the National Level Human Rated Certification Board (HRCB) for Gaganyaan, India’s ambitious human spaceflight mission, guiding the country’s journey into space exploration.