TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
THE CONTEXT: Rhumi-1, India’s first hybrid reusable rocket, is all set to be launched from the East Coast Road coastline in Chennai on August 24 from a mobile launcher.
EXPLANATION:
Mission Rhumi-1
- Rhumi-1 developed by the Tamil Nadu-based start-up Space Zone India.
- It is designed to revolutionize upper-stratospheric research.
- It is equipped with advanced semi-cryogenic technology.
- Rhumi-1 is capable of carrying three Cube Satellites and 50 Pico Satellites will reach an altitude of 35 kilometres to sub-orbital altitudes, making it a groundbreaking tool for educational and research purposes.
- CubeSats are a class of nanosatellites that use a standard size and form factor. The standard CubeSat size uses a “one unit” or “1U” measuring 10x10x10 cms and is extendable to larger sizes; 1.5, 2, 3, 6, and even 12U.
- A picosatellite, also known as an IoT picosatellite, is a miniature artificial satellite that weighs less than 1 kilogram and is no larger than a shoe. Picosatellites are used to exchange data with other systems and devices via internet networks.
- The hybrid rocket will release the payload and fall back into the sea, only to be recovered and used again.
- The hybrid engine used in the rocket uses a liquid oxidiser and a solid fuel.
- The airframe used in the rocket is made of carbon fibre, glass fibre and a parachute deployment system is used with in-house developed pyro technic.
- The rocket aims to bring down the cost, collect data about radiation levels, vibration intensity, temperature and more.
- The Tamil Nadu government’s TIDCO and INSpace have signed an MoU allowing private players to use the launchpad under construction in Kulasekarapattinam instead of going to Sriharikota.
- This innovative rocket not only represents a significant leap in reusable space technology but also provides an unparalleled platform for scientific exploration and experimentation.
Space Zone India
- Space Zone India is registered as a private limited company under the Companies Act, 2013 and rule 18 of the Companies (Incorporation) Rules, 2014.
- Space Zone India is dedicated to improve the lives of future generations by educational and research-based programmes to enlighten the deserving students across the globe.
- Company plays a vital role in enriching the academic standards and paves way for the students in achieving their futuristic goals.
- Space Zone India is a space company located in Chennai with the goal of providing low-cost, long-term solutions in the space industry.
- Space Zone India (SZI) provides hands on training experience on Aerodynamic principles, Satellite Technology, Drone Technology and Rocket Technology.
- It also creates awareness on the career options pertaining to this industry.
- SZI works with Private institutions, Engineering and Art and Science colleges, Private and Government schools.
- The organization is supported by a team of professionals in Satellite Technology, Rocket Technology, Drone Technology, and other fields.
Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe)
- Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) is a single-window, independent, nodal agency that functions as an autonomous agency in the Department of Space (DOS).
- It is formed following the Space sector reforms to enable and facilitate the participation of private players.
- IN-SPACe is responsible to promote, enable authorize and supervise various space activities of non-governmental entities.
- It includes building launch vehicles & satellites and providing space-based services; sharing space infrastructure and premises under the control of DOS/ISRO; and establishing of new space infrastructure and facilities.