Thiruvananthapuram, Mar 15 (UNI) In a major milestone for India’s space programme, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully developed the C-32 cryogenic propulsion system, reinforcing the country’s capabilities in advanced space technology.
The achievement comes alongside ISRO’s successful demonstration of docking and undocking technology, placing India in an elite group alongside the United States, Russia, China, and SpaceX.
Announcing the breakthrough, ISRO Chairman V Narayanan told reporters here on Saturday that the C-32 stage, powered by a 20-ton thrust cryogenic engine, marks a significant advancement in India’s human spaceflight and deep-space exploration capabilities. Designed for prolonged operational efficiency, the system was successfully tested using an indigenous nozzle protection mechanism, allowing for extended test durations—an innovation critical for future heavy-lift missions.
"This is yet another critical milestone in our journey towards self-reliance in space technology. Cryogenic propulsion was once denied to India, but today, we have successfully developed and tested three cryogenic stages, including the C-32, demonstrating our capability to push the boundaries of space exploration," Dr Narayanan said.
In addition, ISRO’s successful docking and undocking demonstration, conducted on January 16, places India among the few nations to have mastered this complex technology. The 125 simulations carried out before the actual attempt ensured that the undocking process succeeded on the very first attempt at 9.21 am, further strengthening India’s credentials in space docking technology—an area where SpaceX has made significant advancements in recent years.
"This achievement will be crucial for India's future space missions, including the Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme, and strengthens our position as a spacefaring nation," Dr Narayanan added.
With dedicated efforts from ISRO scientists, industrial partners, and academic collaborators, India is rapidly progressing towards its goal of becoming a global leader in space technology, in line with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to make the country a developed nation by 2047, he said.
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