Isro Working on Ion Propulsion System for Future Satellites

[TimeToScoot]

The Indian space agency is looking at the possibility of having ion propulsion system to power its future satellites, said a senior space scientist on Saturday.

Speaking to reporters, Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre director K.Sivan said: "In order to reduce the satellite mass, we are looking at ion propulsion system."

The centre is part of Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro).

Presently, satellite fuel occupies space and make it heavy. According to Sivan, the proposed technology would be tested in a communication satellite.

The other technology that the centre is working on is semi-cryogenic engine.

He said the centre has tested the Isro developed cryogenic engine for 20 seconds, and the duration of the tests will be increased in the future.

India's heavy rocket - Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle-MkIII - will be powered by the cryogenic engine.

Isro Working on Ion Propulsion System for Future Satellites | NDTV Gadgets

 

[Skull and Bones]

Bombard any liquid metal with high energy microwave, eject the metal ions using electric field. And you have an ion propulsion engine.

 

[SuperSubrayan]

Bombard any liquid metal with high energy microwave, eject the metal ions using electric field. And you have an ion propulsion engine.

Cool ! Is it like plasma ?

 

[Kinetic]

Bombard any liquid metal with high energy microwave, eject the metal ions using electric field. And you have an ion propulsion engine.

ISRO developed and sent ion propulsion on board GSAT-4 in 2010 but that GSLV mission was a failure. A major setback.

 

[Skull and Bones]

Cool ! Is it like plasma ?

The ejecta will be.

 

[Echo_419]

Bombard any liquid metal with high energy microwave, eject the metal ions using electric field. And you have an ion propulsion engine.

If everyone knows this then why isn't ISRO developing this stuff