On August 24, 2024, Chennai witnessed a groundbreaking moment with the successful launch of Mission Rhumi 2024, India’s first reusable hybrid rocket. The event took place at East Coast Road, near Thiruvidanthai, and brought space enthusiasts from across the globe, including 13-year-old Satrajit Samy from Dubai, who described the experience as “exhilarating.”
This remarkable achievement was made possible through a collaboration between Space Zone India and the Martin Group, with the goal of advancing sustainable space exploration. Rhumi-1, the rocket at the heart of this mission, carried three Cube Satellites designed to gather atmospheric data, alongside 50 PICO Satellites tasked with studying environmental factors.
A key figure behind this mission was Mylswamy Annadurai, a former ISRO scientist famously known as the “moon man of India.” His inspiring words echoed the potential of India’s space technology, particularly with this mission that mirrored global achievements in reusable launch vehicles. He emphasized the importance of fostering a new generation of rocket scientists from schools, just as Chennai has cultivated champions in other fields like sports and music.
Rhumi-1, weighing 80 kilograms and standing at 3.5 meters, utilizes both liquid oxidizers and solid fuel propellant systems, positioning it as a significant milestone in aerospace technology. The mobile launch system adds flexibility, allowing the rocket to be launched from various locations with ease. According to Anand Megalingam, Founder and CEO of Space Zone India, this initiative not only reduces the financial burden of space exploration but also minimizes its environmental impact.
One of the mission’s standout elements is its commitment to education. Students, including Satrajit, were actively involved in the project through the ‘Edutech for Space’ program. After online sessions on topics like orbits and planets, participants attended hands-on satellite workshops at BITS Pilani. The experience ignited their passion for space, with Satrajit dreaming of a future where children could build rockets themselves.
Mission Rhumi 2024 is not just a leap forward in technology, but also a beacon of inspiration for the younger generation, paving the way for future Indian space explorers.
