ISRO successfully demonstrates autonomous landing of Pushpak RLV with IAF's assistance

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a significant milestone in its reusable launch vehicle (RLV) program with the successful demonstration of the autonomous landing capability of the winged vehicle called Pushpak. As part of its RLV-LEX 2 mission, Pushpak, designed to reduce space launch costs, underwent a crucial test with the assistance of the Indian Air Force's Chinook helicopter. Lifted to a predefined altitude of 4.5 kilometers, the RLV was released and autonomously approached the runway, making precise adjustments before landing with the aid of its brake parachute, landing gear brakes, and nose wheel steering system.

ISRO lauded the mission's success, emphasizing the re-validation of indigenous technologies in navigation, control systems, and landing gear. The Indian Air Force also congratulated ISRO on the achievement, expressing willingness to contribute to future endeavors. Conducted at the Aeronautical Test Range in Chitradurga, Karnataka, the mission involved collaboration between various ISRO centers, including the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), Liquid Propulsion System Centre (LPSC), and ISRO Inertial Systems Unit (IISU). ISRO Chairman S Somanath commended the team for the flawless execution of the complex mission.

Utilising the #IAF Chinook helicopter for its airlift and subsequent positioning at a predefined altitude and location, @isro successfully demonstrated the autonomous landing capability of the Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) 'PUSHPAK' as part of its RLV-LEX 2 mission.

Airlifted to… pic.twitter.com/FCTGHk51wO

— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) March 22, 2024