India’s first reusable hybrid rocket Rhumi-1 was launched from Chennai by Space Zone India in collaboration with Martin Group. The rocket was launched using a mobile trajectory while carrying a payload of 50 pico satellites and three cube satellites. The sounding rocket flew at an altitude of about 35 km and returned to Earth after conducting several experiments within seconds.

Dr. Mayilswamy Annadurai, former Director of ISRO Space Centre who led the expedition said that the rocket used a combination of liquid and solid fuel propellants to enhance efficiency and minimize operational costs.

Launch Details

Location and Method

The RHUMI-1 reusable hybrid rocket was launched from a mobile launcher in Thiruvidandhai, a coastal village near Chennai, Tamil Nadu. This mobile launch capability sets RHUMI-1 apart from traditional rocket systems, offering flexibility in launch locations.

Payload

The inaugural flight of RHUMI-1 carried a significant payload:

• Three CubeSats
• 50 PICO satellites

These satellites were launched into a suborbital trajectory with the primary mission of collecting data for research on global warming and climate change.

Flight Parameters

RHUMI-1, classified as a sounding rocket, achieved an altitude of approximately 35 kilometers. The rocket’s flight duration was brief, returning to Earth within seconds after conducting several experiments.

Technical Specifications

Hybrid Rocket Technology

RHUMI-1 utilizes hybrid rocket engine technology, which combines features of both solid-fueled and liquid-fueled engines. This innovative approach offers several advantages:

• Fuel Configuration: Solid fuel serves as the propellant, while a liquid or gaseous oxidizer sustains combustion.
• Design: The solid fuel is cast into a cylindrical shape and placed inside the rocket motor. The oxidizer is stored separately and fed into the combustion chamber as needed.
• Safety: Both propellants are inert and only combust when the fuel is converted to a gaseous state and mixed with the oxidizer in the combustion chamber.

Unique Features

RHUMI-1 boasts several cutting-edge features:

• Generic-fuel-based hybrid motor
• Electrically triggered parachute deployer
• 100% pyrotechnic-free
• 0% TNT content

These characteristics contribute to the rocket’s safety profile and reusability.

Significance of RHUMI-1

Advancements in Space Technology

1. Reusability: As India’s first reusable hybrid rocket, RHUMI-1 represents a significant step towards sustainable space exploration.
2. Cost Reduction: The reusable nature of the rocket is expected to substantially lower the operational costs of launches.
3. Accessibility: By reducing costs and increasing efficiency, RHUMI-1 could make space exploration more accessible to a wider range of organizations and research institutions.

Environmental Considerations

The payloads carried by RHUMI-1 focus on climate research, highlighting the rocket’s potential role in advancing our understanding of pressing environmental issues.

About Space Zone India

Company Profile

Space Zone India, the private aero-technology company behind RHUMI-1, is at the forefront of innovation in India’s space sector.

• Headquarters: Chennai
• Chairman: K Megalingam

Mission and Focus

The company’s mission extends beyond rocket development:

1. Low-Cost Solutions: Developing affordable, long-term solutions for the space industry.
2. Education and Outreach: Providing hands-on training in aerodynamic principles, satellite technology, drone technology, and rocket technology.