The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved a significant milestone with the successful test of the Reusable Launch Vehicle-Technology Demonstrator (RLV-TD). The test, conducted at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC-SHAR), Sriharikota, marks a critical step towards future Orbital Re-entry missions.
The RLV-TD, developed by ISRO, is designed to enable the reusability of launch vehicles, thereby reducing the cost of space missions. The recent test focused on testing the vehicle’s autonomous navigation and energy management systems, crucial components for successful re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere.
The team behind the success of this experiment was led by Shri Sunil P, Programme Director, Advanced Technology and Systems Programme, VSSC. Shri J Muthupandian, Project Director, RLV, served as the Mission Director, while Shri B Karthik, Deputy Project Director, RLV, was the Vehicle Director for this mission.
Several ISRO centers and facilities played a vital role in the success of this experiment. ISTRAC provided tracking support, SAC provided a Pseudolite system and a Ka-band Radar Altimeter, LPSC offered all pressure sensors on the wing body, IISU provided navigation hardware/software and an integrated solution. Additionally, Metrological and wind measurement support was provided by SDSC-SHAR, and URSC offered ground power support.
Moving forward, ISRO will continue to refine and improve the technology demonstrated in this test. Future efforts will focus on further enhancing the vehicle’s autonomous capabilities and energy management systems, with the ultimate goal of conducting successful Orbital Re-entry missions.
