AIR BREATHING PROPULSION SYSTEM

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully completed its second experimental flight to demonstrate air breathing propulsion technology. 
• This test is a significant step towards ISRO's development of a low-cost space transportation system.

Key points related to the experimental flight

• The propulsion system was installed symmetrically on either side of the RH-560 sounding rocket.
• The RH-560 rocket is one of ISRO's heaviest sounding rockets.
• It is a two-stage, solid motor-based sub-orbital rocket, developed for atmospheric studies and testing propulsion technology.

What is Air Breathing Propulsion Technology?

• Air breathing propulsion system is a propulsion technology that performs combustion using oxygen present in the atmosphere. 
• It is different from rocket engines, as it does not require carrying an oxidizer.

Key features

• Low fuel weight – No need to carry oxidizer, which keeps the rocket light.
• Lower cost – Fuel consumption is reduced, reducing the cost of space missions.
• Better payload capacity – Due to reduced weight of the rocket, more scientific equipment and payload can be carried.

Types of Air Breathing Propulsion

Ramjet Engine

• Speed ​​range: Effective up to Mach 3 (supersonic speed).
• Mode of working: Compresses atmospheric air and then mixes it with fuel to burn.
• Use: In supersonic cruise missiles and high-speed aircraft.

Scramjet Engine (Scramjet - Supersonic Combustion Ramjet)

• Speed ​​range: Operates at hypersonic speeds (Mach 5+).
• Mode of working: Uses supersonic air to burn, thereby achieving extreme speeds.
• Use: Future hypersonic aircraft and space transport.

Dual Mode Ramjet (DMRJ)

• Speed ​​range: Suitable from subsonic to supersonic speeds.
• Mode of working: It combines the features of both ramjets and scramjets.
• Use: Multi-mode engine, in future space flights.

Advantages of Air Breathing Propulsion Technology

• Revolution in future space missions – This technology will be extremely useful for hypersonic aircraft, space planes and reusable launch vehicles (RLV).
• Improve commercial satellite launch – Will help in developing cheap and efficient launch systems.
• Indigenous technology – Will enhance India’s space autonomy and pave the way for future hypersonic flights.