DRDO’s Green Propulsion System Successfully Launched in Orbit, Boosting India’s Space Technology
The Ministry of Defence announced on Thursday that the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved a significant milestone in India’s space technology. DRDO successfully launched a Green Propulsion System, developed under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme, into orbit functionality on a payload launched by PSLV C-58. This project, known as the 1N Class Green Monopropellant thruster, was sanctioned to Bengaluru-based start-up Bellatrix Aerospace Pvt Ltd.
Revolutionizing Altitude Control and Orbit Keeping of Micro Satellites
The 1N Class Green Monopropellant thruster is a groundbreaking technology designed to enable safe and eco-friendly propulsion for low-orbit space missions. By providing altitude control and orbit keeping capabilities for micro satellites, the system utilizes an indigenously-developed propellant and several other components such as Fill and Drain Valves, Latch Valve, Solenoid Valve, Catalyst Bed, and Drive Electronics.
Exceeding Performance Expectations in Space
The Telemetry Data from the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM) at ISRO Telemetry, Tracking, and Command Network (ISTRAC), Bengaluru, has undergone rigorous validation processes and has been found to exceed all performance parameters set for the Green Propulsion System. This validation process ensures that the technology is reliable and fully functional in the vacuum of space.
A Major Step Towards Non-Toxic and Environmentally-Friendly Space Missions
The successful deployment of the Green Propulsion System not only marks a major achievement for DRDO and Bellatrix Aerospace Pvt Ltd but also represents a significant advancement towards non-toxic and environmentally-friendly space missions. The use of this innovative propulsion system eliminates the need for toxic chemicals, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable space exploration.
Achieving Impressive Milestones with the Development Agency and DRDO
The complete project, from conceptualization to realization, has been carried out by the Development Agency, Bellatrix Aerospace Pvt Ltd, under the guidance of Project Monitoring and Mentoring Group of DRDO. Notably, the system has demonstrated pulsed mode and steady state firing in vacuum, passivation of residual propellant in outer space, propellant realization, and establishing the filling procedure under the TDF. These achievements signify the successful collaboration between the start-up and DRDO in pushing the boundaries of space technology.
Future Applications and Advancements in Space Propulsion
With its high thrust capabilities, the Green Propulsion System opens up new possibilities for a range of space missions. Its successful deployment paves the way for future advancements in space propulsion, enabling safer and more efficient exploration of the cosmos. As India continues to make strides in its space program, the deployment of environmentally-friendly technologies like the Green Propulsion System will undoubtedly contribute to a more sustainable and responsible approach to space exploration.
Analyst comment
This news is positive. The successful launch of DRDO’s Green Propulsion System revolutionizes altitude control and orbit keeping for micro satellites, while being non-toxic and environmentally friendly. This technology surpasses performance expectations and opens up possibilities for safer and more efficient space missions. This will likely lead to increased demand for the Green Propulsion System and drive advancements in space propulsion.
