The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) successfully completed its second experimental flight demonstrating Air Breathing Propulsion Technology on Tuesday. The test, conducted at 7:00 am from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, marks a significant advancement in India’s space propulsion capabilities.
Using the RH-560 sounding rocket, the heaviest in its class, ISRO showcased its innovative approach by mounting the Air Breathing Propulsion systems symmetrically on either side of the rocket. The test closely monitored nearly 110 parameters to evaluate the propulsion system’s performance. The successful ignition and satisfactory performance of the propulsion systems provided valuable data for future technological developments.
This experimental flight builds on 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 CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL) in Bengaluru highlights the comprehensive efforts in developing this technology.
The successful demonstration of Air Breathing Propulsion Technology marks a major milestone for ISRO. This technology, which uses atmospheric oxygen as an oxidizer, has the potential to revolutionize space travel by reducing the overall weight of the propulsion system and increasing payload capacity. The data collected from this mission will be crucial in refining and advancing this technology, paving the way for more efficient and cost-effective space missions in the future.