The Department of Mechanical Engineering under the School of Engineering and Sciences at SRM University-AP, Andhra Pradesh, India, successfully organized an industrial visit on September 16, 2026, to Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, India. The industrial visit was organized to enhance the practical knowledge and industry exposure of B. Tech and M. Tech students in the areas of aerospace engineering, advanced manufacturing, mechanical systems, propulsion systems, materials engineering, automation and quality control. The visit was aligned with the academic curriculum and aimed at providing students with first-hand exposure to India’s space research and launch vehicle development activities.
The visit was led by faculty members of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, namely Dr. Chandan Kumar, and Prof. Gurumurthy Kagita who accompanied and guided the students throughout the
industrial visit.
During the visit, students gained valuable insights into the functioning and operations of one of India’s major space research and launch facilities. The technical experts at SDSC SHAR explained various aspects of launch vehicle assembly, integration, testing, launch operations, propulsion systems, mechanical systems, and ground support infrastructure. Students were introduced to the different stages involved in preparing launch vehicles for space missions and gained an understanding of the stringent quality and safety requirements followed in the aerospace sector.
The students also observed the application of advanced engineering principles in aerospace systems, including precision manufacturing, material selection, structural design, thermal management, automation, instrumentation, and control systems. The interaction with technical personnel provided valuable insights into the challenges associated with the design, manufacturing, assembly, testing, and maintenance of complex aerospace systems. The importance of dimensional accuracy, reliability, quality assurance, preventive maintenance, and safety protocols in mission-critical applications was particularly emphasized
The visit provided students with an opportunity to understand how various engineering disciplines, particularly mechanical, manufacturing, materials, electronics, and control engineering, are integrated in the development and launch of space vehicles.
The industrial visit was highly beneficial in bridging the gap between theoretical classroom learning and real-world aerospace engineering applications. It enabled students to interact with experienced ISRO professionals, understand the practical challenges associated with large-scale and high-precision engineering operations, and gain awareness of career opportunities and future avenues in the space and aerospace sectors.
The Department of Mechanical Engineering extends its sincere gratitude to the management and technical team of Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, India, for granting the permission and facilitating the industrial visit. The department also appreciates the efforts of all the officials and staff members who provided valuable technical insights and guidance, making the visit an enriching and memorable learning experience for the students.
