India testing reusable tech on NGLV, Isro chief happy with results

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is progressing with the creation of its Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV), integrating cutting-edge ‘recover and reuse’ technology.

Isro Chairman V. Narayanan revealed recent advancements regarding the new launch vehicle after the agency’s triumphant 100th rocket launch from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

The Geosynchronous Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F15) successfully delivered the NVS-2 satellite to a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) in a flawless launch. Narayanan shared his enthusiasm, mentioning that this achievement is a point of pride not only for Isro but for the whole country, and he noted that the “reward for hard work is additional work, and Isro has an extremely busy year ahead.”

The NGLV is expected to possess a liftoff mass of 1,000 tons and a height of 91 meters, considerably exceeding the 43-meter GSLV Mk III.

The NGLV seeks to transform space launches by facilitating the recovery and reuse of its initial stage, similar to advancements made by SpaceX.

“It changes everything.” So far, all the launch vehicles we have are expendable, meant for a single use operation. However, with NGLV, we will reclaim the initial stage and utilize it repeatedly. “Two weeks ago, we conducted an experiment in Mahendragiri,” Narayanan stated. This innovation may enable several reuses, lowering operational costs and enhancing the operational efficiency of the booster. Narayanan observed that recent experiments carried out in Mahendragiri showed the viability of this technology, with intentions to enhance the recovery method. The NGLV is created to facilitate multiple missions, such as satellite deployments and possible human spaceflight activities.