Reusable Satellite Launch Vehicle
Development of Reusable Launch Vehicles is a technical challenge and it involves the development of many cutting edge technologies. The first test flight (HEX-01) of Reusable Launch Vehicle - Technology Demonstrator (RLV-TD) would demonstrate the hypersonic aerodynamics characteristics, Avionics system, Thermal protection system, Control system and Mission management. Based on the test flight results, further flights would be required to demonstrate reusability of the winged body. Reusable Launch Vehicles are aimed at cutting down the cost of satellite launches. However, the magnitude of cost reduction depends on the development and realization of fully reusable launch vehicle and its degree of reusability.
At present, operational launch vehicles in India are expendable launch vehicles, which are designed to be used only once and their stages are not recovered for reuse. The launch vehicle typically consists of several rocket stages and the stages are jettisoned one by one during various phases of the mission as the launch vehicle gains desired altitude and speed.
This information was given by the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Development of North-Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh in reply to unstarred question in Rajya Sabha today.
