India's DRDO Achieves Milestone with Successful Green Propulsion System Test in Space

India has achieved a significant milestone in space defense technology with the successful in-orbit functionality demonstration of a Green Propulsion System developed under DRDO's Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme. The project involved the development of a 1N Class Green Monopropellant thruster for altitude control and orbit maintenance of micro-satellites. It was undertaken by the Bengaluru-based startup Bellatrix Aerospace Pvt Ltd.

The telemetry data from the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM) at ISRO Telemetry, Tracking, and Command Network (ISTRAC) in Bengaluru has validated the system's performance, exceeding all parameters. This innovation offers a non-toxic and environmentally friendly propulsion system for low-earth orbit space missions. It includes indigenous components like propellant, valves, catalyst beds, drive electronics, and more, making it suitable for missions with high thrust requirements.

The Technology Development Fund (TDF) is a Ministry of Defence initiative executed by DRDO under the 'Make in India' program, providing funding for innovation in defense and aerospace, particularly for startups and MSMEs.