Skyroot Aerospace, an Indian private space vehicle company, has recently test-fired its fully 3D-printed cryogenic engine named Dhawan II. This innovative engine was developed for the launch of its heavier vehicle, Vikram II. The success of this test signals significant growth in the Indian space sector’s privatisation, marking a shift in the industry’s dynamics. The engine builds upon the successful test fire of Skyroot’s first privately developed fully-cryogenic rocket engine, Dhawan I, in 2021.
What is 3D Printing?
3D printing, also known as “additive manufacturing”, uses materials like plastic and metals to transform designs made on a computer-aided software into physical three-dimensional objects. Unlike subtractive manufacturing, which involves cutting or hollowing out a piece of metal or plastic with machinery, 3D printing adds layers upon layers of material until the final product takes shape. This technology has extensive applications, including the production of artificial limbs, dental crowns, automobile parts, consumer goods and more.
Understanding Cryogenic Engines
A cryogenic engine, or a cryogenic stage, is the last stage of space launch vehicles utilising cryogenics – a branch of physics dealing with the production and behaviour of materials at extremely low temperatures, often below -150℃. They utilise Liquid Oxygen (LOx) and Liquid Hydrogen (LH2) as propellants and are challenging to develop. Currently, only six countries have these launch vehicles, namely, the US, China, Russia, France, Japan, and India. Cryogenic fuel powers India’s heaviest launch vehicles – GSLV and GSLV Mk III. Cryogenic engines offer greater efficiency, providing more thrust for each kilogram of propellant it burns compared to solid and earth-storable liquid propellant rocket stages.
Dhawan II: Skyroot’s 3D-printed Cryogenic Engine
Skyroot Aerospace named their cryogenic engine series ‘Dhawan’ in honour of Satish Dhawan, a key figure in the development of India’s space programme. The Dhawan II builds upon the first fully-cryogenic rocket engine developed by Skyroot – Dhawan I. The engine is entirely indigenous and uses a superalloy for 3D printing, which reduced the manufacturing time by 95%. Dhawan II uses Liquid Natural gas (LNG) and Liquid Oxygen (LoX) as propellants, with LNG considered as the rocket fuel of the future.
Privatisation Initiatives in the Space Sector
Several initiatives have been launched to encourage the privatisation of the space sector:
1. IN-SPACE: Aimed at creating a level playing field for private companies in utilising Indian space infrastructure. It acts as a liaison between ISRO and parties interested in partaking in space-related activities.
2. NewSpace India Limited (NSIL): Strives to commercialise the R&D outcomes of ISRO through partnerships with Indian industry partners.
3. Indian Space Association (ISpA): An apex, non-profit industry body dedicated to promoting collaboration and exploration in the Indian private and public Space Industry.
Vikram Series by Skyroot
Skyroot’s Vikram series is a range of modular Space launch vehicles tailored specifically for the small satellite market. Named after Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the founder of the Indian Space Program, the series includes four variants: Vikram S, Vikram, Vikram II and Vikram III. The Vikram II rocket is set to become launch-ready by 2024.
The Significance of the Privatisation of the Space Sector
The global space economy is currently estimated to be worth USD 360.1 billion, with India accounting for about 2% of this value. Involving Non-Governmental Entities (NGEs) in the space sector can significantly boost India’s share in the global space economy. This involvement can also help the Indian space programme remain cost-competitive in the global market and generate numerous job opportunities.
