The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is developing a next-gen launch vehicle (NGLV), which will one day replace operational systems such as the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), ISRO Chairman S Somnath has said.
PSLV, often called ISRO’s ‘credible worker’, will one day ‘have to retire’, Mr Somnath said during the three-day Engineers Conclave 2022, which opened at Liquid Propulsion Systems Center (LPSC), Valiyamala. Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday.
In NGLV, ISRO is envisioning a cost-efficient, three-stage to-orbit, reusable heavy-lift vehicle with a payload capacity of ten tonnes to Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO).
The NGLV will have semi-cryogenic propulsion (oxidizer in the form of liquid oxygen (LOX) in the form of refined kerosene) for the booster stages which is cheap and efficient, Mr. Somnath said.
“We believe GTO needs at least 10 tonnes of capacity. Similarly, the capability of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) will be twice this. However, the payload capacity will be less when the rocket is reused,” he said.
simple, sturdy design
The NGLV will have a simple, robust design that allows modularity and minimal turnaround time in bulk manufacturing, systems, sub-systems and stages. Potential uses would be in the areas of launching communications satellites, deep space missions, future human spaceflight and cargo missions.
On the future of PSLV, Mr. Somnath said that as long as there is commercial demand for it, it will be operated.
“Technologies, manufacturing and systems costs all go through changes. The same is true with the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). But GSLV Mk-III (LVM3) is only a few years old. If you look at launch vehicles, it is necessary to incorporate technology at an appropriate time,” he said.
Shri Somnath said that NGLV. It is also important to develop a “business model” for the This would include launching commercial satellites and national missions as well as ensuring industry participation from the outset. “With the backing of ISRO’s knowledge, it is possible for industries to support and manufacture this rocket as a national asset,” he said.