ISRO develops Scramjet rocket propulsion technology

Scramjet enables faster, more efficient rocket propulsion

BY A CORRESPONDENT
6th January 2006

The Indian Space Research Organisation ISRO has developed the Scramjet rocket propulsion technology for faster and more efficient rocket flight. As of now, besides US, only Japan, China, Australia and some European countries have this technology.

In a recent test flight which lasted seven seconds, the Scramjet technology's worth was underlined. The supersonic combustion technology is regarded by ISRO as a major breakthrough.

Conventional rocket systems use chemical systems which are expendable in nature. India's PSLV and GSLV fall under this category. The cost of space transportation is about $15000 per kg now. This must come down to $1000 a kg to make it affordable, says ISRO. The Scramjet technology is a step in this direction. Reusable rockets is another.

Scramjet stands for Supersonic Combustion Ramjet, which sucks in air when the rocket is in flight. Ordinary rockets carry fuel and oxygen on board for combustion, while Scramjet-powered rockets takes air from outside. Air-breathing rockets using Scramjet technology are lighter and more cost-effective.

Raghu Gopalaswamy, an aerospace scientist who was formerly with Defence Research and Development Laboratories headed the Scramjet project, ISRO said.