On Friday, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) accomplished a triumphant landing mission with its Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) dubbed ‘Pushpak’ at the Aeronautical Test Range (ATR) located in Challakere near Chitradurga, Karnataka. ISRO chairman S. Somanath and other senior officials graced the launch site with their presence.
“Once again, ISRO demonstrates its precision! The winged vehicle, Pushpak (RLV-TD), autonomously landed with accuracy on the runway after release from an off-nominal position,” stated the space organization on X.
Pushpak’s launch represents India’s ambitious endeavor to enhance affordability and sustainability in space access.
“Pushpak was hoisted by an Indian Air Force Chinook helicopter and released from an altitude of 4.5 km. “After release, Pushpak autonomously directed itself towards the runway from a distance of 4 km, making cross-range corrections along the way. ISRO reported that it executed a precise landing on the runway, utilizing its brake parachute, landing gear brakes, and nose wheel steering system.”
The design of the Pushpak RLV encompasses an all-rocket, fully reusable single-stage-to-orbit (SSTO) vehicle, integrating key elements inspired by the X-33 advanced technology demonstrator, the X-34 testbed technology demonstrator, and the upgraded DC-XA flight demonstrator.
The launch signifies the third flight of Pushpak, succeeding a series of tests focused on refining its robotic landing abilities amidst progressively challenging scenarios.
Having been in development for more than ten years, the project achieved a significant milestone in April of last year, when the vehicle showcased its autonomous landing capabilities following its release from an Indian Air Force Chinook helicopter. This represented a notable stride forward for the Pushpak RLV, enhancing its trajectory toward achieving orbital re-entry capabilities.
Named in honor of the mythical ‘Pushpak Viman’ from the Ramayana, Isro’s contemporary aircraft embodies themes of prosperity and innovation.
The winged technology demonstrator RLV has been crafted to function as a flying test platform, facilitating the evaluation of various technologies such as hypersonic flight, autonomous landing, and powered cruise flight.
With an investment surpassing Rs 100 crore, the project not only highlights India’s technological expertise but also lays the groundwork for future initiatives, including the ambitious endeavor to establish the Bhartiya Antariksha Station by 2035.
Prime Minister’s Visit: Briefing on Pushpak’s Development
Last month, during his visit to the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a briefing from Somanath regarding the vehicle’s development.
The design of ISRO’s RLV spacecraft obtained approval from the National Review Committee in January 2012. Following this clearance, the initial prototype was constructed and named the RLV-TD (Technology Demonstrator).
Leveraging advanced supercomputer simulations and the development of heat-resistant materials by the National Aerospace Laboratory and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the RLV conducted its maiden flight in 2016.
