PSLV C-60 mission: Space start-up achieves desired results
PSLV C-60 mission: Space start-up achieves desired results
In News
PSLV-C60 mission successfully tested the Rudra High-Performance Green Propulsion System by Bellatrix Aerospace aboard POEM-4, and carried RVSat-1, a microbiological experiment payload developed by RV College of Engineering.
Key Highlights
Rudra Green Propulsion System (Bellatrix Aerospace):
Fired flawlessly aboard PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM-4).
Uses green monopropellant – safer, eco-friendly, and high-performance alternative to traditional toxic fuels like hydrazine.
Achieved precise control: 1.4°/s disturbance in Yaw axis during 60s firing; 80° angular rotation observed.
100% in-house design & manufacturing of subsystems (rare achievement in propulsion tech).
Positions Bellatrix as a trusted private propulsion partner globally.
RVSat-1 (RV College of Engineering):
Conducted microgravity experiment to study growth of Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron (gut bacterium) in space.
Compared space-based growth kinetics with Earth-based data.
Supplemented with prebiotics to understand microbiome behavior in space.
Significance
For India’s Space Sector:
Boosts private sector participation under IN-SPACe & NSIL ecosystem.
Demonstrates capability of Indian start-ups in advanced green propulsion.
Enhances India’s profile in next-gen eco-friendly propulsion technologies.
For Science & Health Research:
RVSat-1 experiment contributes to space biology, human spaceflight readiness, and long-duration mission research.
Microbiome studies critical for astronaut health in future Gaganyaan & deep space missions.