India launched its first reusable hybrid rocket, RHUMI-1, from Marina Beach, Chennai. The 80 kg vehicle reached 35 km altitude, releasing payloads for climate change research.
Coimbatore: India achieved a significant milestone in space technology on Saturday with the successful launch of its first reusable hybrid rocket, RHUMI-1. The launch took place from a ground adjacent to Marina Beach on East Coast Road, near Chennai, marking a new chapter in the country's space exploration efforts.
The mission, dubbed RHUMI-2024, was spearheaded by Tamil Nadu-based startup Space Zone India. The rocket, weighing 80 kg, was fueled with nitrous oxide moments before the launch and ignited at 7:30 PM. According to the mission crew, RHUMI-1 reached an altitude of 35 km, successfully releasing three CUBE payloads and 50 pico-payloads into the suborbital region.
Anand Megalingam, CEO of Space Zone India, revealed that the rocket was named after his son, Rhumithran. He emphasized that the project was a collaborative effort between his company and Martin Group of Industries, with significant contributions from 1,500 school students. "Students worked with satellite technology. They made pico-satellites and CUBE payload. Almost all parameters were accomplished in the mission. The payload data in different attitude has also been collected," Megalingam stated.
The primary objective of RHUMI-1 is to conduct research on global warming and climate change. This mission represents a crucial step towards understanding and addressing these pressing environmental issues.
Looking ahead, Megalingam disclosed that work on Rhumi-2 has already begun. The next iteration aims to achieve a higher altitude of 250 km with a 250 kg payload. Given the increased rocket and payload mass, he suggested that future launches could potentially take place from ISRO's upcoming spaceport in Kulasekarapattinam.
Jose Charles Martin, Managing Director of Martin Group of Companies, confirmed the mission's success and emphasized the continued involvement of students in future projects. "A lot of students worked on Rhumi-1. Even in Rhumi-2, there will be a lot of students' participation," Martin affirmed.
This successful launch not only demonstrates India's growing capabilities in space technology but also highlights the importance of collaboration between private enterprises, educational institutions, and young innovators in pushing the boundaries of scientific exploration.