SOURCE: AFI
A groundbreaking launch is set to take place on August 24 from the Chennai shores. Space Zone India, a Chennai-based startup, will be launching a reusable hybrid rocket, a first for India. This innovative rocket will carry three CubeSats and 50 PICO satellites into sub-orbit to monitor and collect data on various atmospheric conditions.
The project, named ‘Mission Rhumi -2024’, is guided by the renowned Mylswamy Annadurai, former ISRO director and fondly referred to as the “Moon Man of India”. The launch is scheduled for around 7 am from the TTDC Ground on East Coast Road.
Anand Megalingam, CEO of Space Zone India, explained that the rocket will be launched using a mobile hydraulic launcher mounted on a truck. All necessary government approvals, including NOCs from the DG of civil aviation, Air Force Tambaram, and AAI, have been obtained. Additionally, the Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) process has been initiated.
The unique feature of this hybrid rocket is its reusability. Unlike traditional rockets that are discarded after a single use, this rocket is designed to be recovered and reused for future missions. Approximately 70% of the 80-kg rocket components can be retrieved and repurposed, making it an environmentally sustainable option.
Megalingam emphasized the advantages of hybrid rockets. Unlike fully solid or liquid rockets, hybrid rockets use a separate oxidizer tank, filled with semi-cryogenic nitrous oxide at -80°C. This oxidizer is stored separately from the solid wax fuel until combustion, significantly reducing the risk of accidental detonation. The solid wax fuel is housed in a separate tank and combines with the oxidizer only during the combustion process.
This innovative launch marks a significant step forward for India’s space program. The reusable hybrid rocket technology has the potential to revolutionize space exploration by reducing costs and minimizing environmental impact.