ISRO has achieved a major milestone with the profitable launch and touchdown of Pushpak viman, an SUV-sized winged rocket usually dubbed because the “Swadeshi house shuttle.” The take a look at, carried out in Karnataka, noticed Pushpak viman make a exact touchdown on a runway after being launched from an Air Power helicopter. This accomplishment marks a significant stride in India’s endeavor to enter the reusable rocket section, signaling a promising development within the nation’s house exploration efforts.

ISRO Chief S Somanath expressed satisfaction with the outcomes, describing them as “wonderful and exact,” as soon as once more showcasing the company’s technological experience and proficiency. The mission aimed to simulate the strategy and high-speed touchdown circumstances of a Reusable Launch Automobile (RLV) coming back from house, and Pushpak demonstrated its capabilities with outstanding accuracy.

ISRO’s Autonomous Touchdown Capabilities

Pushpak viman’s profitable touchdown, even after being launched from an off-nominal place, demonstrated its autonomous touchdown capabilities. Lifted by an Indian Air Power Chinook helicopter, the rocket autonomously navigated in the direction of the runway, making essential cross-range corrections earlier than touchdown. The precision touchdown was achieved by way of a mixture of a brake parachute, touchdown gear brakes, and a nostril wheel steering system.

This profitable experiment marked the third flight of Pushpak, showcasing its robotic touchdown talents in advanced eventualities. Whereas operational deployment could take years, Pushpak represents India’s daring try to create space entry extra inexpensive and sustainable. ISRO goals to make the higher stage of the launch automobile reusable, decreasing prices and minimizing house particles. Pushpak’s potential purposes embody refueling in-orbit satellites and retrieving satellites for refurbishment.

Authorities Funding

Named after the legendary ‘Pushpak Viman’ from the Ramayana, the venture started a decade in the past with a devoted group of engineers and scientists. The 6.5-meter aeroplane-like craft weighs 1.75 tons and is supplied with small thrusters for exact navigation throughout descent. The federal government’s funding of over ₹100 crore underscores the importance of this venture in India’s house endeavors.

Pushpak viman’s success provides a brand new chapter to ISRO’s legacy, positioning India as a key participant within the world house enviornment.