Semi cryogenic and cryogenic propulsion stages for launch vehicles

DIRECTOR

Considering the long-lead time required for the development of Cryogenic stage of GSLV MkII vehicle, for meeting the initial flights, few cryogenic stage hardware were procured from Russia. Towards this, as an expert in Cryogenic propulsion, contributed in the development of mission management systems, contract management and the successful flights of GSLV MkII vehicle with procured cryogenic stages.

For sustained operation of GSLV MkII, initially ISRO planned for technology acquisition of Cryo Stage for manufacturing in India. But due to Geo political reasons, the technology acquisition could not succeed and ISRO decided to develop CUS indigenously. Dr. V Narayanan has played crucial role in the successful development of Cryogenic Upper Stage (CUS) and contributed in making it operational for the GSLV Mk II vehicle.

For the Indian Human Space Flight (Gaganyan) programme, working on the Human Rating of C25 and L110 liquid stages of LVM3 vehicle and the development of Propulsion modules for Crew module & Service module and the Cabin pressure control systems. Thermal & humidity control systems and the propulsion stage for Test Vehicle.

For enhancing the GTO payload capability of LVM3 vehicle and meeting the future Indian Heavy Lift Rockets, guided the team and designed a Lox-Kerosene semi Cryogenic Propulsion System and providing techno-managerial leadership for its development. Taken up the development of improving the C25 Cryogenic stage performance with higher propellant (32 tonnes of LoX & LH2) loading with higher thrust (22 tonne) engine. His team is also developing 100T thrust LOX-CH4 Engine & Electric Propulsion thrusters. He has also made significant contribution in the Spacecraft Propulsion area.

Dr. Narayanan has published large number of technical papers (Internal Reports: 1200, Journal/conference papers : 50 and Book chapters : 3). Delivered large number of keynote speeches and ten convocation addresses in Engineering institutions including IIT's and NIT's.

Source : HRD /PPEG Updated on 11.07.2023