INDIA launched its first reusable hybrid rocket ‘RHUMI- 1’, developed by the Tamil Nadu-based start-up Space Zone India with Martin Group, from Thiruvidandhai in Chennai on Saturday. The rocket, carrying 3 Cube Satellites and 50 PICO Satellites, was launched into a suborbital trajectory using a mobile launcher. These satellites will be collecting data for research purposes on global warming and climate change. RHUMI is equipped with a generic-fuel-based hybrid motor and electrically triggered parachute deployer, RHUMI is 100% pyrotechnic-free and 0% TNT. The mission RHUMI is led by Anand Megalingam, the founder of the Space Zone, under the mentorship of Dr Mylswamy Annadurai, Former Director of ISRO Satellite Centre (ISAC).

 

The RHUMI-1 rocket combines the advantages of both liquid and solid fuel propellant systems to improve efficiency and reduce operational costs. In 2023, through mission ‘Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Students Satellite Launch - In 2023’ over 2,500 students from Government, tribal, and public schools across the country, contributed in designing and construction of a student satellite launch vehicle. The vehicle could carry a payload of 150 Pico satelling research experiment cubes. “It is 3.5 metre tall rocket and was launched at about 7.25 am from the earlier 7am lift off schedule,” Space Zone India Founder-CEO Anand Megalingam said. “It is more of a sounding rocket. It flew to an altitude of about 35 kms and right now my team is there to collect it as per our plan (since it is a reusable rocket),” he told PTI.

 

“Compared to an 89 degree inclination, we had launched the rocket with 70 degree inclination due to heavy wind and gusts,” he explained on the launch from the mobile launch pad near the coast. Space Zone India is an aero-technology company in Chennai that aims to provide low-cost, long-term solutions in the space industry. It provides hands-on training experience on Aerodynamic principles, Satellite Technology, Drone Technology and Rocket Technology. It also creates awareness of the career options in this industry. SZI works with Private institutions, Engineering and Art and Science colleges, and Private and Government schools.