In India's ambition to enter the reusable rocket sector, Pushpak, an SUV-sized winged rocket, touched down gracefully on a runway in Karnataka this morning. Termed the "swadeshi space shuttle," this achievement marks a significant milestone for the country's space endeavors.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) orchestrated the successful landing, which saw Pushpak being dropped from an Air Force helicopter as part of a meticulously planned test. Praising the precision of the outcome, ISRO Chief S Somanath expressed satisfaction with the results, describing them as "excellent and precise."
"ISRO nails it again! Pushpak (RLV-TD), the winged vehicle, landed autonomously with precision on the runway after being released from an off-nominal position," stated the space agency, signifying the success of the mission.
This mission, according to ISRO, effectively replicated the approach and high-speed landing conditions expected when a Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) returns from space. The intricate procedure involved lifting Pushpak with an Indian Airforce Chinook helicopter, releasing it from a height of 4.5 kilometers, and allowing it to autonomously navigate towards the runway, making necessary corrections along the way.
"The winged vehicle, called Pushpak, was lifted by an Indian Airforce Chinook helicopter, and was released from 4.5 km altitude. After release at a distance of 4km from the runway, Pushpak autonomously approached the runway along with cross-range corrections. It landed precisely on the runway and came to a halt using its brake parachute, landing gear brakes, and nose wheel steering system," detailed ISRO in a statement.
This successful experiment marked the third flight of Pushpak, serving as a testament to its robotic landing capabilities under more complex circumstances. However, operational deployment of Pushpak is anticipated to require several more years of development and testing.
"The Pushpak launch vehicle is India's bold attempt to make access to space most affordable," asserted Mr. Somanath.
With aspirations to make access to space more economical, Mr. Somanath highlighted Pushpak's potential for in-orbit satellite refueling and satellite retrieval for refurbishment, contributing to the reduction of space debris.
Named after the legendary 'Pushpak Viman' from the Ramayana, known as the vehicle of the Lord of Wealth, Kuber, Pushpak's development journey began a decade ago. Weighing 1.75 tons and spanning 6.5 meters, this aeroplane-like craft navigates its descent with the assistance of small thrusters, ensuring precise landing.
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