India's RHUMI-1: First Reusable Hybrid Rocket Launched

Launch and Mission Details

• Launch Date: August 24, 2024
• Location: Thiruvidandhai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
• Launch Time: Around 7:25 AM
• Launch Platform: Mobile launcher
• Mission Name: Mission RHUMI 2024
• Primary Goal: Advancing research on global warming and climate change
• Altitude Reached: Approximately 35 kilometers
• Inclination: 70 degrees (adjusted from planned 89 degrees due to strong winds)

Rocket Specifications and Technology

• Name: RHUMI-1 (Reusable Hybrid Ultimate Mission of India)
• Type: Reusable hybrid rocket
• Height: 3.5 meters
• Propulsion: Hybrid motor using generic fuel

Key Features:

• Electrically triggered parachute deployer
• 100% pyrotechnic-free
• 0% TNT content

Hybrid Technology:

• Combines solid fuel propellant with liquid/gaseous oxidizer
• Solid fuel cast in cylindrical shape inside rocket motor
• Oxidizer stored separately and fed into combustion chamber
• Combustion occurs when gaseous fuel mixes with oxidizer

Payload and Scientific Objectives

3 CUBE satellites:

• Purpose: Monitor and gather atmospheric data
• Measurements: Cosmic radiation intensity, UV radiation, air quality

50 Pico satellites:

• Purpose: Investigate various atmospheric factors
• Measurements: Accelerometer readings, altitude, ozone levels
• Overall Objective: Collect data for research on global warming and climate change

Organizations and Key Figures

Space Zone India:

• Based in Chennai
• Founder-CEO: Anand Megalingam
• Chairman: K Megalingam
• Focus: Cost-effective, long-term solutions in the space sector

Martin Group of Companies:

• Supports Mission RHUMI 2024 through Corporate Social Responsibility initiative

Guidance from:

• Mylswamy Annadurai, former Director of ISRO Satellite Centre and project director of India's Moon Mission "Chandrayaan"