Veteran rocket scientist Narayanan to lead India's space research organization
India aims to expand its share in the global space market and grab a $40 billion slice of the pie by 2040.
A satellite model is placed on a picture of Earth in this illustration taken November 25, 2024.
Reuters
India appointed rocket scientist V. Narayanan as the new head of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
Narayanan takes over from S. Somanath, who has been credited with making ISRO more approachable and engaging.
The new chief has contributed to key rocket launches and led ISRO's liquid propulsion systems center.
India has appointed rocket scientist V. Narayanan as the new head of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), the government said Tuesday. The appointment comes as the country works to establish itself as a space superpower.
Narayanan will succeed S. Somanath, who became chairman in 2022 and is credited with making the 54-year-old space agency more approachable and engaging with the next generation.
Narayanan, who has contributed to key rocket launches such as ISRO's Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle and led the center that designs and develops liquid propulsion systems for the agency, will begin his two-year term on Jan. 14.
Narayanan did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The $400 billion global commercial space market is expected to grow to $1 trillion by 2030. India aims to expand its share and capture a $40 billion slice of the market by 2040, the government has said.
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