Bengaluru-based start-up develops green propulsion system for spacecraft

Bellatrix Aerospace Pvt Ltd, a Bengaluru-based start-up, funded by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has developed a `Green Propulsion System’, which uses a green monopropellant thruster for altitude control and orbit keeping of micro satellites, making a big leap in space defence technology. 

The green propulsion system, developed with support from DRDO’s Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme, has successfully demonstrated in-orbit functionality of the technology on a payload launched by PSLV C-58 mission. 

Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) has validated telemetry data from PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM) at its Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC), Bengaluru with ground level solution and is found to have exceeded all performance parameters.

The propellant, fill and drain valves, latch valve, solenoid valve, catalyst bed, drive electronics etc are indigenously developed. This innovative technology has resulted in the development or non-toxic and environment-friendly propulsion system for low orbit space and is ideal for space mission with high thrust requirements, says a DRDO release. 

The project was mentored by the development agency under guidance of Project Monitoring and Mentoring Group of DRDO. It has demonstrated pulsed mode and steady state firing in vacuum, passivation of residual propellant in outer space, propellant realisation and establishing of filling procedure under the TDF, according to DRDO.

The TDF is a flagship programme of the ministry of defence executed by DRDO under the ‘Make in India’ initiative for funding innovation in defence and aerospace, especially to start-ups and MSMEs.