In a historic achievement, the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) has successfully carried out the landing mission of its Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) named ‘Pushpak’. The event took place at the Aeronautical Test Range (ATR) in Challakere near Karnataka’s Chitradurga, marking a significant leap in India’s space exploration endeavors.
Witnessed by Isro chairman S Somanath and other senior officials, the landing of ‘Pushpak’ marks a groundbreaking advancement in space technology. The vehicle, designed as an all-rocket, fully reusable single-stage-to-orbit (SSTO) vehicle, embodies years of meticulous planning and innovation.
“Isro nails it again! Pushpak (RLV-TD), the winged vehicle, landed autonomously with precision on the runway after being released from an off-nominal position,” the space organization announced proudly.
The successful mission saw ‘Pushpak’ being lifted by an Indian Air Force Chinook helicopter and released from an altitude of 4.5 km. Demonstrating remarkable autonomy, the vehicle approached the runway with cross-range corrections and landed precisely, utilizing its brake parachute, landing gear brakes, and nose wheel steering system.
Named after the mythical ‘Pushpak Viman’ from the Ramayana, the modern-day ‘Pushpak’ symbolizes India’s commitment to prosperity and innovation in space exploration. With an investment exceeding Rs 100 crore, the project not only showcases India’s technological prowess but also sets the stage for ambitious future endeavors.
The ‘Pushpak’ RLV project has been in development for over a decade, with the latest success marking its third flight. It serves as a testament to India’s relentless pursuit of affordable and sustainable space access, paving the way for future missions and the ambitious goal of establishing the Bhartiya Antariksha Station by 2035.