Pushpak: ISRO’s Reusable Launch Vehicle
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully conducted its third mission involving the Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) named “Pushpak” on March 22, 2024.
- The primary objective of the Pushpak mission is to develop essential technologies for a fully reusable launch vehicle, aimed at enabling low-cost access to space.
- This mission is part of ISRO’s ongoing efforts to reduce the cost of space missions and minimize space debris.
- The Pushpak RLV was carried to an altitude of approximately 4.5 km by an Indian Air Force Chinook helicopter and released after achieving predetermined pillbox parameters.
- The Pushpak RLV is designed as fully reusable single-stage-to-orbit (SSTO) vehicle.
- It incorporates several major elements from advanced technology demonstrators such as the X-33, the X-34 testbed, and the upgraded DC-XA flight demonstrator.
