Meet The New Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre

India’s space research journey received a significant boost with the appointment of Dr. A Rajarajan as the new Director of the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) in Thiruvananthapuram, effective August 1, 2025. He succeeds Dr. S Unnikrishnan Nair, who retired on July 31, 2025. With nearly four decades of experience in India’s space sector, Dr. Rajarajan is recognized as a composites expert and a pioneering force behind the launch of Vikram-S, India’s first privately built rocket.

A Veteran Space Scientist Takes Charge

Dr. A Rajarajan, prior to this appointment, served as the Director of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR (SDSC SHAR), Sriharikota, one of ISRO’s most crucial facilities for launch operations. His deep expertise in composite materials—used to build lightweight and high-strength structures for satellites, spacecraft, and launch vehicles—has been instrumental in several of India’s most successful space missions.

Key Achievements at SDSC SHAR

During his tenure at SDSC SHAR, Dr. Rajarajan played a pivotal role in modernizing and expanding launch infrastructure to meet ISRO’s ambitious goals. His contributions include,

• Spearheading preparations for the Human Space Programme (Gaganyaan).
• Overseeing the creation of an exclusive launch complex for the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV).
• Leading resource planning to support both government missions and the growing commercial space sector, aligning with India’s new space policy.

Supervising the successful execution of landmark missions such as Chandrayaan-3, Aditya-L1, Gaganyaan TV-D1 test vehicle, and LVM3 M2/OneWeb India-1, India’s first dedicated commercial mission.

Driving Private Participation in India’s Space Sector

One of Dr. Rajarajan’s most notable contributions has been his support for private sector involvement in India’s space industry. He facilitated the launch of Vikram-S, India’s first privately built rocket, developed by Skyroot Aerospace, and also extended strong support to Agnikul Cosmos, a Chennai-based start-up that successfully launched its maiden flight.

This focus on public-private collaboration is in line with the government’s push for a more open and competitive space ecosystem under the new space reforms.

Contributions to VSSC and Indigenous Capabilities

Dr. Rajarajan is no stranger to the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre. He has previously held several leadership roles at VSSC and has been a driving force in the indigenisation of critical space systems. His initiatives included,

• Strengthening India’s composite technology base.
• Partnering with Indian industries to enhance solid motor production.
• Establishing strategic collaborations that reinforced ISRO’s self-reliance in critical space technologies.

Why His Appointment Matters

Dr. Rajarajan’s appointment as VSSC Director comes at a crucial time for ISRO and India’s space programme. With the country gearing up for more commercial launches, interplanetary missions, and the Human Space Programme, his leadership is expected to,

• Enhance India’s launch vehicle capabilities.
• Deepen private sector engagement in the space economy.
• Strengthen India’s position in the global space industry.
• Ensure continued success of India’s flagship missions.