What is RHUMI-1 ?
It is India’s first reusable hybrid rocket launched, developed by the Tamil Nadu-based start-up Space Zone India
The rocket, carrying 3 Cube Satellites and 50 PICO Satellites, was launched into a suborbital trajectory using a mobile launcher.
Cube satellites are nano satellites that weigh between 1 to 10 kg.
Pico satellites are smaller satellites, with weights ranging from 0.1 to 1 kg.
To collect data for research purposes on global warming and climate change.
Hybrid Propulsion System: The RHUMI-1 integrates both solid and liquid propellants, enhancing efficiency and lowering operational costs.
The engine allows for precise trajectory control with adjustable angles ranging from 0 to 120 degrees.
Electrically Triggered Parachute System: It has advanced and eco-friendly descent mechanism that ensures safe recovery of rocket components, offering both cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits.
It is entirely free of pyrotechnics (fireworks) and TNT (Trinitrotoluene), an odourless yellow solid used in explosives, highlighting its commitment to sustainability.
What is Reusable launch vehicle?
Reusable Launch Vehicles (RLVs) are spacecraft designed to be launched, recovered, and launched again multiple times.
Advantages
Up to 65% cheaper than building a new rocket for every launch.
By minimising discarded rocket components.
Lesser turnaround time enables the rocket to be used more frequently.
Different from Multi-Stage Rocket
In a typical multi-stage rocket, the first stage is discarded after its fuel is exhausted to reduce weight, allowing the remaining stages to continue propelling the payload into orbit.
However, RLVs recover and reuse the first stage.
After separating from the upper stages, the first stage descends back to Earth using engines or parachutes for a controlled landing
COMMENTS