A scale version of a 'Reusable Launch Vehicle' or RLV-TD as it is launched from Sriharikota on the south-east coast of India. Pic/PTIIndia on Monday successfully tested its home-grown winged reusable launch vehicle (RLV), demonstrating its space technology prowess and joining an elite club of space-faring nations like the US, Russia and France. From 65km height, the vehicle began its descent followed by atmospheric re-entry at Mach 5 (five times speed of sound). By mid-day online correspondent | Posted 23-May-2016President Pranab Mukherjee, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi and a host of leaders congratulated ISRO's successfully tested its home-grown winged RLV. You make us proud — Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) May 23, 2016With the launch of RLV-TD, our scientists at @isro add another feather of spectacular achievement for our nation.

Source: Mid-Day May 23, 2016 07:05 UTC