Context:
Rapid advancements in reusable rocket technology are transforming the global space industry by significantly reducing launch costs. With the space economy projected to cross $1 trillion by 2030, countries including India are investing in reusable systems to enhance competitiveness.
Key Highlights:
Cost Revolution in Space Launch
• Reusable rockets reduce space access costs by 5–20 times compared to expendable systems.
• SpaceX Falcon 9 first stages recovered over 520 times.
• Shift from a disposable launch model to a transportation model.
ISRO’s Initiatives
• Development of Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) technology.
• Focus on recovery of spent first stages.
• Aim to enhance cost competitiveness in global launch market.
Technical Concepts
• Tsiolkovsky Rocket Equation:
– Relates velocity change to exhaust velocity and mass ratio.
– Highlights importance of minimizing structural mass.
- Staging:
– Multiple propulsion units discarded sequentially to reduce weight. - Retro-propulsion:
– Using engines to decelerate during landing. - Vertical Integration:
– Controlling multiple stages of supply chain for efficiency.
Engineering Constraints
• Structural fatigue and thermal stress limit reuse cycles.
• Refurbishment economics critical to viability.
UPSC Relevance
• GS 3 – Science & Technology: Rocket science, space technology.
• GS 3 – Economy: Space economy growth.
• Prelims: Rocket equation, staging, ISRO missions.