The Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) on Tuesday successfully completed the second experimental flight demonstrating Air Breathing Propulsion Technology.
The test, conducted at 07:00 am from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, marks a crucial step forward in India's space propulsion capabilities.
The experiment utilised Isro's RH-560 sounding rocket, the heaviest in its sounding rocket family, as a cost-effective flying test bed. The Air Breathing Propulsion systems were symmetrically mounted on either side of the rocket, showcasing Isro's innovative approach to testing advanced technologies.
During the flight, nearly 110 parameters were closely monitored to assess the performance of the propulsion system. The test achieved satisfactory performance of the sounding rocket and successfully ignited the Air Breathing propulsion systems, providing valuable data for future developments in this cutting-edge technology.
This experimental flight builds upon extensive ground tests conducted at various Isro centers, including the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), and Isro Propulsion Complex (IPRC). Collaboration with the CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL) in Bengaluru further underscores the comprehensive approach taken in developing this technology.
The successful demonstration of Air Breathing Propulsion Technology represents a significant advancement in Isro's capabilities. This technology has the potential to revolutionize space travel by allowing vehicles to use atmospheric oxygen as an oxidizer, potentially reducing the overall weight of the propulsion system and increasing payload capacity.
As Isro continues to push the boundaries of space technology, this successful test flight paves the way for the next phase of development in Air Breathing Propulsion systems.
The data collected from this mission will be invaluable in refining and advancing this technology, potentially leading to more efficient and cost-effective space missions in the future.
Source: India Today