The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has announced a significant collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to establish a Centre of Excellence in Fluid and Thermal Sciences. This new research centre will focus on addressing thermal management challenges related to spacecraft and launch vehicle design, analysis, and testing.
Why This Collaboration Matters
The establishment of this Centre of Excellence is a strategic move to enhance India's capabilities in space technology. By leveraging the expertise of IIT Madras faculty and ISRO scientists, the centre aims to foster innovation and address critical thermal engineering challenges.
Key Focus Areas
The research projects at the Centre of Excellence will cover several critical areas, including:
- Spacecraft Thermal Management: Developing solutions to manage heat generated during space missions.
- Combustion Instability in Hybrid Rockets: Addressing issues related to combustion instability in hybrid rocket engines.
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Cryo-Tank Thermodynamics: Studying the thermodynamics of cryogenic tanks used in space missions.
Funding and Support
ISRO will provide an initial seed funding of Rs 1.84 crore to establish the centre and support essential infrastructure and equipment. Additional funding will be allocated for consumables, maintenance, and future projects in fluid-thermal sciences.
Industry-Academia Collaboration
This collaboration aims to create a unique industry-academia interface, allowing ISRO scientists and IIT Madras faculty and students to collaboratively advance research in critical areas of thermal science. The partnership is expected to contribute significantly to India's space programme and strengthen the nation's self-reliance in space technologies.
Conclusion
The establishment of the Centre of Excellence in Fluid and Thermal Sciences is a significant step towards enhancing India's capabilities in space technology. This collaboration between IIT Madras and ISRO will foster innovation and provide a platform for advanced research in thermal management, benefiting the nation's space programme.
