Chennai: India has successfully launched its first reusable hybrid rocket, ‘RHUMI-1’, developed by Tamil Nadu-based start-up Space Zone India in collaboration with the Martin Group. The launch took place on Saturday from Thiruvidandhai in Chennai.

The RHUMI-1 rocket, which was propelled into a suborbital trajectory using a mobile launcher, carried three Cube Satellites and 50 PICO Satellites. These satellites are set to gather valuable data for research on global warming and climate change. Notably, the RHUMI-1 rocket is equipped with a hybrid motor that uses generic fuel and features an electrically triggered parachute deployer. The rocket is entirely pyrotechnic-free and does not contain any TNT.

The mission, known as RHUMI, is spearheaded by Anand Megalingam, the founder of Space Zone India, under the guidance of Dr. Mylswamy Annadurai, former Director of the ISRO Satellite Centre (ISAC). The RHUMI-1 rocket integrates the benefits of both liquid and solid fuel propellant systems, aiming to enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs.

Space Zone India, based in Chennai, is an aero-technology company dedicated to providing cost-effective, long-term solutions in the space sector. The company offers practical training in aerodynamic principles, satellite technology, drone technology, and rocket technology. It also promotes awareness of career opportunities in the space industry and collaborates with private institutions, engineering colleges, and both private and government schools.

In 2023, Space Zone India launched the ‘Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Students Satellite Launch’ mission, which saw the participation of over 2,500 students from government, tribal, and public schools nationwide. These students contributed to the design and construction of a student satellite launch vehicle capable of carrying a payload of 150 Pico satellites for research experiments.

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