ISRO to Launch Electric Propelled Satellite in Dec: Somanath
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch an electric propelled satellite in December, announced ISRO Chairman S Somanath on Tuesday. The satellite, which is yet to be named, will be a technology demonstrator and will be propelled by an electric propulsion system developed indigenously by ISRO. This marks a significant step forward for India’s space program as it embarks on a journey to develop more efficient and cost-effective ways to launch satellites.
Somanath, addressing the media at the 75th Independence Day celebrations of the Space Technology Students’ Symposium, shared this news with a mix of excitement and pride. He highlighted the importance of this mission for India’s future space ventures. The electric propulsion system offers a substantial advantage over conventional chemical propulsion systems, particularly in terms of fuel efficiency and extended mission life.
Electric propulsion, a technology that utilizes electric fields to accelerate propellant, requires minimal fuel and is capable of achieving higher velocities over a long period. This makes it highly suitable for interplanetary missions and deep space exploration, which demand precise maneuvering and fuel-efficient travel.
The upcoming launch, which is still in its early planning stages, promises to pave the way for more ambitious space missions in the future. The electric propulsion system is currently being integrated with the satellite, and tests are underway to ensure its reliability and performance. The success of this mission could position India as a frontrunner in the field of electric propulsion, contributing to the advancement of global space exploration.
The development of electric propulsion technology aligns perfectly with ISRO’s strategy to explore alternative, cost-effective approaches to space missions. This technology has the potential to drastically reduce the costs associated with launching satellites, particularly for long-duration missions.
Somanath’s announcement comes at a time when India is rapidly expanding its space capabilities. ISRO is already actively pursuing various ambitious projects, including Chandrayaan-3, a mission to land a rover on the lunar surface, and Gaganyaan, a mission to send an Indian astronaut into space. The successful deployment of electric propulsion technology will further solidify India’s position as a global player in the field of space exploration.
While the specific details of the satellite and the launch date are yet to be revealed, this development underscores ISRO’s commitment to cutting-edge technology and its ambition to conquer the challenges of space exploration. This launch is not just a technical milestone but a testament to India’s growing prowess in the space sector, and it promises to inspire generations of scientists and engineers to push the boundaries of human ingenuity.
