ISRO and IIT Madras Launch New Research Centre
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras have officially inaugurated the S Ramakrishnan Centre of Excellence for Research in Fluid and Thermal Sciences. Named in honor of the late aerospace engineer and IIT Madras alumnus Dr. S Ramakrishnan, this new facility aims to enhance research in thermal and fluid dynamics specifically for spacecraft and launch vehicle technology. The inauguration, held on March 17, 2025, was led by ISRO Chairman Dr. V Narayanan, marking a significant step forward in India’s space research capabilities.
Research Objectives and Collaboration
The S Ramakrishnan Centre will focus on developing advanced thermal management solutions essential for space exploration. According to an agreement signed on November 11, 2024, ISRO and IIT Madras will collaborate on various research initiatives aimed at improving spacecraft cooling systems and high-fidelity simulations. The centre, located within the Department of Mechanical Engineering, will serve as a dedicated space for cutting-edge research in fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and propulsion cooling technologies. This partnership will also facilitate knowledge-sharing sessions between ISRO scientists and IIT Madras faculty, fostering innovation in cryogenic technology and the design of space vehicles.
India’s Progress in Cryogenic Technology
During the inauguration, Dr. V Narayanan emphasized India’s advancements in cryogenic engine technology, noting that the country has successfully developed three indigenous cryogenic engines, including one specifically designed for human spaceflight. He pointed out that only a handful of nations possess this capability, underscoring India’s growing prominence in advanced space technology. The new research centre is expected to play a crucial role in supporting future ISRO missions, including initiatives focused on reusable spacecraft, deep-space exploration, and interplanetary projects.
New Seminar Hall Commemorating a Distinguished Scholar
In addition to the research centre, IIT Madras has inaugurated the Arcot Ramachandran Seminar Hall, named after the former director of the institute and a prominent heat transfer specialist. This new facility is anticipated to become a hub for academic discussions and interdisciplinary research. The collaboration between ISRO and IIT Madras is set to enhance India’s expertise in space thermal sciences, ultimately benefiting upcoming missions and technological advancements in the field.
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