Dr Digendranath Swain Honored with Vigyan Yuva Award

Dr Digendranath Swain, a researcher at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) under the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has been awarded the prestigious Vigyan Yuva Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award by President Droupadi Murmu for his significant contributions to space science and technology. Swain’s work focuses on the structural engineering of rocket components, particularly through the use of experimental mechanics and innovative non-destructive testing methods.

As a key scientist in VSSC’s structural engineering division, Swain and his team are responsible for ensuring the structural integrity of various components used in ISRO's launch vehicles (LVs). His research has been pivotal in the successful qualification of multiple missions, including LVM3, SSLV, TV-D1, RLV-TD, PSLV, and GSLV. His team is now gearing up to support the upcoming Gaganyaan mission and the next-generation launch vehicle (NGLV).

Swain's work involves the development and implementation of specialized tools, such as the patented IMPRESS (Indian-Make Portable and Real-time Shearography System), designed for non-destructive testing of rocket hardware. His innovations have streamlined the process of evaluating the elastic properties of specialized materials and have simplified measurements crucial for solid propulsion system design.

Reflecting on his journey, Swain noted that his doctoral research at IIT Kanpur in growth biomechanics, although seemingly unrelated, has equipped him with advanced knowledge in solid mechanics applicable to his current role. His pioneering work in modeling the development of soft and hard tissues also holds potential for future applications in ISRO's Gaganyaan and Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) missions, particularly in studying the effects of microgravity on living tissues.

Swain’s contributions highlight the critical role of structural engineering in the success of India’s space missions, further solidifying VSSC’s position as a leader in space technology.