In a groundbreaking achievement for India’s space program, the country’s indigenous reusable rocket, named Pushpak Viman after the mythical aircraft from the Ramayana, has successfully completed a test flight. The test, conducted by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), demonstrated the vehicle’s ability to autonomously land with precision, marking a significant milestone in India’s efforts to enter the reusable rocket segment.
The test involved the launch of Pushpak, an SUV-sized winged rocket, which was dropped from an Indian Air Force helicopter. The rocket autonomously approached the runway, made cross-range corrections, and landed precisely using its brake parachute, landing gear brakes, and nose wheel steering system. ISRO officials described the outcomes of the test as “excellent and precise.”
This successful test marks the third flight of Pushpak as part of a series of experiments to test its robotic landing abilities under varying conditions. ISRO Chief S Somanath hailed the achievement, emphasizing Pushpak’s role in making access to space more affordable and sustainable.
The development of Pushpak began a decade ago, with a dedicated team of engineers and scientists working on the project. The 6.5-meter aeroplane-like craft weighs 1.75 tons and is designed to make the upper stage of the launch vehicle reusable, thus reducing costs and minimizing space debris.
Mr. Somanath highlighted Pushpak’s potential future capabilities, including refueling in-orbit satellites and retrieving satellites for refurbishment, further enhancing India’s space exploration capabilities.
The successful landing of Pushpak brings India closer to operationalizing reusable launch vehicles, a significant step towards achieving cost-effective and sustainable space exploration. The government has invested over ₹100 crore in the project, underscoring its commitment to advancing India’s space capabilities.
Sources By Agencies
