Rhumi-2024 Mission: India’s reusable hybrid rocket takes off | (Photo: X)
Tamil Nadu-based SpaceZone India and Martin Group on Saturday launched the country’s “first reusable hybrid rocket – Rhumi 1” into orbit from East Coast Road Beach at Pattipulam in Tamil Nadu.
A statement said that Rhumi 1 was launched into space on India’s first hydraulic mobile launch system, allowing flexible and adaptable launch operations from multiple locations at different angles between 0 and 120 degrees. The Rhumi 1 rocket created history by launching three Cube satellites into orbit and returning safely to Earth in just 7 minutes, setting a new standard for fast space missions. Last week, the Martin Group of companies, founded by “lottery king” Santiago Martin, reportedly stated that it plans to foray into the space sector and may acquire a stake in Space Zone India. Interestingly, Martin Group’s Future Gaming and Hotel Services, a little-known Coimbatore-based company, was in the news in March 2024 as the largest buyer of electoral bonds.
“At Martin Group, we are always on the lookout for innovative ventures that push the boundaries of technology and contribute to a better future. Our commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) drives us to support cutting-edge advancements with the potential to transform industries and inspire students in space science and space technology. Supporting Space Zone India aligns perfectly with our vision,” said Jose Charles Martin, Managing Director, Martin Group. The rocket was carrying three Cube satellites designed to monitor and collect data on atmospheric conditions including cosmic radiation intensity, UV radiation intensity, air quality and more. The rocket deployed 50 different Pico satellites, each dedicated to studying various aspects of atmospheric conditions such as vibration, accelerometer readings, altitude, ozone levels, toxic content, and natural and synthetic molecular bonding of fibers, thereby enhancing our understanding of environmental dynamics.
“Their dedication to sustainability and excellence in aerospace technology is truly inspiring. By supporting Rhumi Mission-2024, we are not only supporting a ground-breaking space mission but are also improving the lives of future generations through educational and research programmes that enlighten deserving students. We are proud to be a part of this remarkable journey and look forward to witnessing the incredible impact Space Zone India will have on aspiring students and society,” he added.
Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, Minister for Civil Aviation, said, “This successful launch of Rhumi 1 marks a significant leap for India’s aerospace industry, showcasing our nation’s growing capabilities in space innovation. The advancement of a reusable hybrid rocket, capable of launching satellites and returning within minutes, speaks volumes about the technological prowess we possess. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the brilliant scientists and engineers at Space Zone India for their vision and dedication to pushing the boundaries of space exploration and to Martin Group for supporting them. This is a proud moment for India and a testament to our drive for innovation in the global aerospace arena.”
Siva V Meyyanathan, Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Tamil Nadu, said, “This innovation reflects our commitment to promoting environmental stewardship and fully harnessing the unlimited potential of space exploration. Together, we are paving the way for a greener future. I wholeheartedly congratulate Space Zone India and Martin Group on the success of the Rhumi 2024 mission.”
Mylswamy Annadurai, known as the ‘Moon Man of India’, said, “Working on the Rhumi Mission has been an incredible experience. I am proud to see that it has marked new milestones in India’s space exploration efforts. The successful launch and return of the Rhumi 1 rocket demonstrates the power of collaboration, innovation and the limitless potential of our next generation of scientists and engineers. This mission not only marks a technological leap but also serves as an inspiration for future space endeavours,” he added.
Anand Megalingam, Founder and CEO, Space Zone India, said, “This mission is not only a testament to our dedication but also to the incredible talent of the students who worked alongside us and demonstrated their potential to shape the future of space exploration. I wholeheartedly thank Martin Group and Charles Sir for supporting Space Zone India in all our missions. They have been our pillar of strength and we look forward to what lies ahead.”
First published: August 25, 2024 | 09:20 IS
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