THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Distinguished space scientist MV Dhekane who took charge as the director of ISRO Inertial Systems Unit (IISU) at Vattiyoorkavu here on Friday, has set his priorities on development of the inertial sensors and navigation systems for the upcoming space launches this year.

"ISRO is geared up for eight launches this year including the next PSLV-C35, so here at IISU, we are focussed on ensuring the advanced navigation systems for launch vehicles through computerised systems, motion sensors (accelerometers) and rotation sensors (gyroscopes). Timely modification and design of the navigations systems is crucial for space missions to inject the satellites in the precise orbit," Dhekhane told TOI. Further, he added that a review meet will be held shortly to take stock of the developments and to work ahead for continuous modification and updation.

An expert in digital auto pilot system for space launch vehicles to place the satellite in the precise orbit with advanced navigation systems, Dhekane has played a key role in the ISRO's launch missions for the last 30 years. Right from ISRO's mission of Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle (ASLV), Polar Satellite Launch Vehicles (PSLVs), Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicles (GSLVs) and Reusable Satellite Launch Vehicle (RLV) Technology demonstrator, he played a key role in ensuring navigation systems.

"Digital autopilot system is vital for precise injection of satellites in the orbit and to the navigation system with world class sensors is crucial for the success of every launch mission of ISRO and Dhekane has played a major part to ensure that," said a senior scientist at VSSC here. In the successful PSLV C-34 mission that placed 20 satellites in orbit, a new Inertial navigation system 'Mk IV A' employing next generation Accelerometer was introduced, he said. Dhekane has wide experience and expertise in the launch vehicle control and Guidance design, on-board software development, mission design and analysis. Previously, Dhekane had held various positions in ISRO such as VSSC Control, Guidance & Simulation Entity deputy director, VSSC Chief Controller and Associate Director (research and development).



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