The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has shared plans to develop a prototype of a reusable vehicle capable of vertical takeoff and landing. This innovation will allow the first stages of rockets to be reused, making missions significantly cheaper. Essentially, India is working on its own version of the American Falcon 9. 
LVM3M5. Photo: ISRO.
“We are working on reusable technologies, air-breathing technologies, research related to Earth’s return, as well as new engines, combined cycle engines. A lot of R&D is underway, including air-breathing engines, reusable engines, new power plants,”
said ISRO head V. Narayan.
The new engines are set to be used in India’s next-generation launch vehicle (NGLV), which is planned for deploying the national station Bharatiya and manned missions to the Moon.
According to recent announcements, ISRO has successfully tested various components related to its reusable launch vehicle, aiming for operational readiness in the coming years. These advancements align with ISRO’s broader goals to enhance its satellite launch capabilities and expand into lunar and planetary exploration.
