Indigenously developed hypersonic wind tunnel and shock tunnel, the third largest in terms of size and simulation capability in the world, were commissioned at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) here on Monday.

Dedicating the facilities to the nation at a function at the VSSC complex, A. S. Kiran Kumar, Chairman, ISRO, said they would provide adequate data for design and development of current and future space transportation systems.

“This proves the country’s capability in establishing world class facilities where in technology from outside is restricted or not available,” the ISRO chairman said. The facilities were dedicated to the memory of Satish Dhawan, a pioneer in the field. Mr. Kumar named the new facility Satish Dhawan Wind Tunnel Complex.

Director, VSSC, K. Sivan said although with the advent of powerful computers excellent modelling capabilities came into being, there was no replacement for wind tunnel testing for aerodynamic characterisation.

The development of these facilities posed design challenges in aero and thermo-mechanical areas, involved intricate engineering, demanded massive fabrication, utilised super- precision machining, and satisfied safety protocols.

The facility has 500 valves, 2 km of pipelines, 41 electric motors, 35 pumps, 320 instruments and 10 km of cables, according to ISRO.