Former Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) scientist Nambi Narayanan remarked that many space sector startups are redoing work from 50 years ago. He made these comments at the launch of Vaanam, a private space tech accelerator in India focused on boosting the space startup ecosystem, particularly in Tamil Nadu. Narayanan emphasized the need for startups to innovate and address new challenges rather than replicating ISRO's efforts. He suggested that developing an engine with LOX/Methane could elevate Indian startups to the level of their French and American counterparts, highlighting the need for government support due to cost and confidence barriers.
Narayanan serves as a mentor for Vaanam, which he believes is a timely initiative given the rising interest in space technology in India. Tamil Nadu Industries Minister TRB Rajaa, also present at the launch, noted that India lacks sufficient celebration and inspiration regarding its space achievements. He emphasized the need to inspire children by exposing them more to space and celebrating pioneers like Narayanan. Rajaa mentioned ongoing discussions with the Adler Planetarium in Chicago to create a science/space park for kids in India.
Vaanam plans to establish ‘Space Clubs’ in schools and colleges to foster interest in space among students. These clubs will conduct workshops focusing on space startups and entrepreneurs from Tamil Nadu. Sameer Bharat Ram, Vaanam's co-founder, highlighted the state’s history of producing successful space scientists and enterprises. He praised the supportive startup ecosystem under Chief Minister MK Stalin's leadership.
Vaanam's mission is to accelerate space tech innovations and help startups achieve a product-market fit quickly. Co-founder Hariharan Vedamurthy noted the gap in commercialization frameworks for startups and how Vaanam aims to bridge these gaps, speeding up the market readiness of innovations. The advisory board includes industrialist Ravi Mariwala and actor/director R. Madhavan, in addition to Narayanan.
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