SOURCE: AFI
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) showcased a scaled model of its upcoming Surya NGLV (Next-Generation Launch Vehicle) rocket at the National Space Day event in Delhi. During the event, ISRO shared more detailed information about this advanced rocket, highlighting its mission objectives, new technologies, and capabilities. The Surya NGLV represents a significant step forward in India’s space ambitions, offering enhanced payload capacities and incorporating cutting-edge technologies.
The Surya NGLV is designed to be a partially reusable launch vehicle, aligning with ISRO’s goals of achieving cost-effective and sustainable space missions. It is tailored to meet India’s future requirements for launching heavier and larger payloads, including human-rated missions. The Surya NGLV will have a payload capacity of up to 30 tons to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and 10 tons to Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO). This substantial payload capability will enable ISRO to undertake a broader range of missions, from deploying large constellations of satellites to human spaceflight endeavors.
Key Specifications
- Overall Length: 92 meters
- Lift-Off Weight: 1094 tons
New Technologies and Features
The Surya NGLV is equipped with several advanced technologies that enhance its performance and reusability:
Distributed Avionics: The rocket will utilize a distributed avionics architecture, enhancing the reliability of onboard systems and allowing for more efficient data management and control throughout the mission.
LOX-Methane Engine: The rocket will be powered by a Liquid Oxygen (LOX) and Methane engine, a modern propellant combination that offers higher efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and potential for in-space refueling, thus extending mission durations and reducing overall costs.
Engine Clustering: The Surya NGLV will feature a clustering of nine engines, providing robust thrust and redundancy, which enhances the vehicle’s reliability and safety, particularly for human-rated missions.
Large Size Tanks: The rocket will incorporate large-sized tanks to accommodate the increased propellant requirements for heavier payloads and longer missions.
Booster Recovery Features: To improve cost-effectiveness and sustainability, the Surya NGLV will feature booster recovery systems, allowing for the reuse of rocket stages. This approach is in line with global trends towards reusable rocket technology, aimed at reducing the cost per launch.
Horizontal Integration: The rocket’s design will facilitate horizontal integration, allowing for more efficient assembly, testing, and transportation of the launch vehicle, minimizing the time and resources needed for launch preparation.
Propellant Feed System: An advanced propellant feed system will be implemented to ensure a steady and efficient supply of fuel to the engines, maximizing thrust and overall mission efficiency.
The development of the Surya NGLV aligns with India’s growing ambitions in space exploration and satellite deployment. With its advanced capabilities and human-rated design, the Surya NGLV is expected to play a crucial role in ISRO’s future missions, including the Gaganyaan human spaceflight program and potential interplanetary exploration missions. The rocket’s enhanced payload capacity and reusability features will enable India to compete more effectively in the global space market, offering launch services for a wide range of commercial and international partners.