Big leap in Space Defence Technology: Green Propulsion System, developed under DRDO’s Technology Development Fund, successfully demonstrates in-orbit functionality

Subject: Science and tech

Sec: Defence

Context:

A Green Propulsion System developed under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme of DRDO has been successfully demonstrated in-orbit functionality on a payload launched by PSLV C-58 mission.

More on news:

This project 1N Class Green Monopropellant thruster for altitude control and orbit keeping of micro satellites was sanctioned to a Bengaluru-based start-up Bellatrix Aerospace Pvt Ltd (Development Agency).
The Telemetry Data from PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM) at ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC), Bengaluru has been validated with ground level solution and is found to have exceeded all performance parameters.

Features of the technology:

This innovative technology has resulted in a non-toxic and environment-friendly propulsion system for low orbit space.
The system consists of indigenously-developed Propellant, Fill and Drain Valves, Latch Valve, Solenoid Valve, Catalyst Bed, Drive Electronics, etc.
It is ideal for space missions with high thrust requirements.
The complete project has been carried out by the Development Agency under guidance of Project Monitoring & Mentoring Group of DRDO.
It has demonstrated pulsed mode and steady state firing in vacuum, passivation of residual propellant in outer space, propellant realization and establishing of filling procedure under the TDF.

About Technology Development Fund (TDF):

Technology Development Fund (TDF) has been established to promote self-reliance in Defence Technology as a part of the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
It is a programme of the Ministry of Defence.
This programme is executed by the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) to meet the requirements of the Tri-Services, Defence Production and DRDO.
The Scheme encourages participation of public/private industries, especially MSMEs and startups, so as to create an ecosystem for enhancing cutting edge technology capability in the defense sector.

About POEM:

The PSLV Orbital Experimental Module(POEM) is a platform that will help perform in-orbit experiments using the final, and otherwise discarded, stage of ISRO’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV).
The PSLV is a four-stage rocket where the first three spent stages fall back into the ocean, and the final stage (PS4) after launching the satellite into orbit ends up as space junk.
POEM has a dedicated Navigation Guidance and Control (NGC) system for attitude stabilization, which stands for controlling the orientation of any aerospace vehicle within permitted limits.
POEM will derive its power from solar panels mounted around the PS4 tank, and a Li-Ion battery.