The successful launch of RHUMI-1 marks a pivotal moment for India’s space sector, illustrating the country’s rapid technological advancements and commitment to sustainable and cost-effective space exploration.
The successful launch of its first reusable hybrid rocket, RHUMI-1, from Thiruvidandhai in Chennai. This milestone, accomplished by Tamil Nadu based startup Space Zone India in collaboration with the Martin Group, represents a new era in the country’s space capabilities.
🚀 World’s First Mobile Hybrid Reusable Rocket Aka. Rhumi-1, with anytime anywhere launch capabilities launched from #Chennai, carrying 3 Cube Satellites and 50 PICO Satellites into a suborbital trajectory.
🇮🇳Rocket developed by Start-ups Space Zone India and Martin Group. #IADN pic.twitter.com/yRTo3liCuN
— News IADN (@NewsIADN) August 24, 2024
The RHUMI-1 rocket, a cutting-edge creation, carried a payload of three CubeSats and 50 PICO satellites, all designed to gather critical data for research on global warming and climate change. Launched into a suborbital trajectory using a mobile launcher, the mission aims to enhance our understanding of environmental challenges while showcasing India’s growing expertise in space technology.
Features of RHUMI-1
RHUMI-1 is notable for its innovative hybrid propulsion system, which integrates the advantages of both liquid and solid fuels. This hybrid motor, combined with an electrically triggered parachute deployer, allows for greater efficiency and significantly reduces operational costs. Importantly, the rocket is designed to be 100% pyrotechnic-free and contains no TNT, highlighting its safety and environmental considerations.
One of RHUMI-1’s standout features is its adjustable launch angle, which can be varied between 0 and 120 degrees. This flexibility provides precise control over the rocket’s trajectory, enhancing its adaptability for various missions. Additionally, the rocket incorporates a CO2-triggered parachute system, an eco-friendly mechanism ensuring the safe recovery of its components after launch.
Versatile Applications
Beyond its primary mission in space exploration, RHUMI-1’s technology holds promise for a range of other applications, including agriculture, environmental monitoring, and disaster management. The ability to reuse rocket components efficiently opens new possibilities for cost-effective space missions, reinforcing India’s position as a rising power in the global space industry.
Leadership and Collaboration
The RHUMI-1 mission was spearheaded by Anand Megalingam, the founder of Space Zone India, under the mentorship of Dr. Mylswamy Annadurai, former Director of the ISRO Satellite Centre (ISAC). Their leadership reflects the increasing involvement of private entities in India’s space endeavors, complementing the efforts of traditional government agencies like ISRO.
Space Zone India, an aero-technology company based in Chennai, is dedicated to providing low-cost, long-term solutions for the space sector. In addition to its commercial activities, the company emphasizes education and outreach, offering hands-on training in aerodynamic principles, satellite technology, drone technology, and rocket technology. The organization works closely with private institutions, engineering colleges, and both private and government schools to foster interest in aerospace careers.
Space Zone India
In 2023, Space Zone India made headlines with its ‘Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Students Satellite Launch’ mission, which involved over 2,500 students from diverse backgrounds across India in the design and construction of a student satellite launch vehicle. This initiative demonstrated the company’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of aerospace professionals.
As private startups like Space Zone India continue to innovate and collaborate with established players, India is poised to expand its footprint in the global space arena, opening new frontiers for exploration and discovery.
Also Read: India Unveils Its First Reusable Hybrid Rocket, ‘RHUMI-1’
