SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is advancing its capabilities in space technology with Project VEDA, an ambitious program aimed at developing a launch vehicle tailored for low-cost, efficient satellite deployment.
With a focus on enhancing India’s self-reliance in satellite launch technology, Project VEDA’s specifications suggest it will be capable of carrying substantial payloads to low-Earth orbit (LEO).
The estimated payload capacity positions Project VEDA as a versatile vehicle for small- and medium-sized satellite launches, supporting applications such as the Deployment of reconnaissance and communication satellites for defence. Launching small Earth observation and scientific payloads for monitoring environmental changes. A cost-effective option for launching commercial satellites, enabling DRDO to offer services to the private sector.
To approximate Project VEDA’s performance, we can compare it to vehicles with similar specifications, such as the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) in its lighter configurations. The PSLV, with a first stage of similar dimensions, can deliver about 1,100 kg to LEO. However, Project VEDA’s streamlined design and modern materials could improve upon this range, depending on propellant efficiency and total launch mass.
The payload capacity of a launch vehicle is influenced by several factors, including the thrust-to-weight ratio, stage-specific propulsion efficiency, propellant type, and overall aerodynamics. Given that Project VEDA’s precise engine specifications and thrust data are undisclosed, this estimation will rely on comparable designs with similar dimensions to infer an approximate payload capacity.
The 1st stage’s length of 12.75 meters and diameter of 2.45 meters allow a substantial propellant volume, providing significant thrust for initial lift-off. The second stage, with a slightly narrower diameter of 2 meters, is optimized for efficient upper atmosphere and orbital manoeuvring.
If lightweight composite materials are used, the structure weight could be minimized, increasing payload capacity. DRDO is likely to leverage advanced materials to reduce the vehicle’s mass, thus enhancing its payload-to-weight ratio.
Based on similar dimensions seen in other medium-lift vehicles, Project VEDA may be able to deliver a payload in the range of 500 to 1,000 kilograms to a 500-kilometer LEO.
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