India’s space agency ISRO has recently achieved progress in its Gaganyaan programme. Two successful hot tests of the Service Module Propulsion System (SMPS) were conducted at the Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri. These tests are crucial milestones in validating the propulsion technology for India’s first crewed spacecraft.
Recent Hot Tests of SMPS
Recently, ISRO performed two short-duration hot tests of the SMPS lasting 30 seconds and 100 seconds. The tests aimed to validate the propulsion system’s configuration and performance under simulated flight conditions. The 100-second test included simultaneous operation of all Reaction Control System (RCS) thrusters and Liquid Apogee Motor (LAM) engines. Results matched pre-test predictions, confirming system reliability.
Components of the Propulsion System
The SMPS consists of five Liquid Apogee Motor engines, each providing 440 Newtons of thrust. It also includes sixteen Reaction Control System thrusters with 100 Newton thrust each. These components are essential for orbital manoeuvring and abort scenarios during the mission. The propulsion system ensures precise control of the spacecraft in low Earth orbit.
Technological Development and Improvements
ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion System Centre leads the development of the SMPS. The recent test article incorporated improvements based on lessons from earlier tests. This iterative approach has enhanced the system’s robustness and readiness. The agency plans a full-duration hot test soon, which will further validate the propulsion system for flight.
Significance for the Gaganyaan Mission
The Gaganyaan programme aims to demonstrate India’s ability to launch and operate a crewed spacecraft in low Earth orbit. The propulsion system is a critical element for mission success, enabling orbital adjustments and emergency aborts. Knowledge and experience gained from these tests will be vital for the upcoming crewed flight, marking a major step in India’s human spaceflight capabilities.
Future Prospects
Successful validation of the SMPS will pave the way for the integration of the propulsion system with the complete crew module. ISRO is preparing for subsequent tests and mission rehearsals. The Gaganyaan mission is expected to elevate India’s status in global space exploration and technology.
Questions for UPSC:
- Point out the importance of propulsion systems in crewed space missions and estimate their role in mission safety and success.
- Critically analyse the challenges faced by emerging space agencies like ISRO in developing human spaceflight technology with suitable examples.
- Underlined the strategic advantages for India in achieving independent human spaceflight capability and how it affects its geopolitical standing.
- What are the key technological innovations in liquid propulsion systems used in modern spacecraft? How do these innovations impact mission design and execution?
