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🇮🇳 Indian Astronaut Returns to Space After 41 Years: Shubhanshu Shukla Aboard Axiom-4 Mission to ISS

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In a landmark moment for India's space ambitions, Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has blasted off to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission , marking the country's return to human spaceflight after a 41-year hiatus . This historic launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida has not only reignited national pride but also officially kickstarted India’s human spaceflight programme . The mission, operated by Axiom Space , includes a four-member international crew that will spend 14 days in orbit , conducting scientific research, outreach programs, and various commercial activities. This momentous occasion places India among a select group of nations capable of sending humans into space and reflects the growing prowess of the Indian space sector . A New Chapter: Shubhanshu Shukla and India’s Astronautical Comeback The last Indian to go to space was Rakesh Sharma in 1984, aboard the Soviet spacecraft Soyuz T-11. Now, in 2025, Shubhanshu...

DRDO’s Scramjet Engine Breakthrough: A Step Towards Hypersonic Missile Systems

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DRDO’s Scramjet Engine Breakthrough: A Step Towards Hypersonic Missile Systems

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a 120-second ground test of an active-cooled scramjet combustor at its Hyderabad-based Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL). This is a major achievement in India's quest for hypersonic propulsion technology, essential for developing next-generation missile systems.

What is a Scramjet Engine?

A Scramjet (Supersonic Combustion Ramjet) engine is a type of air-breathing jet engine designed to operate efficiently at hypersonic speeds (Mach 5 and above). Unlike conventional jet engines, scramjets do not have rotating compressors and instead rely on supersonic airflow for compression and combustion.

Key Highlights of the DRDO Test

1. Successful 120-Second Ground Test

  • Conducted by DRDL, Hyderabad.
  • Validated the performance of an active-cooled scramjet combustor.
  • Key milestone in the development of India’s hypersonic missile program.

2. Role of Endothermic Scramjet Fuel

  • Endothermic fuels absorb heat during combustion, improving engine cooling.
  • Enhances thermal management and ease of ignition at high speeds.
  • Ensures sustained supersonic combustion, crucial for long-range hypersonic flight.

3. Benefits of Scramjet Technology

  • Eliminates the need for onboard oxygen storage, reducing missile weight.
  • Highly efficient at hypersonic speeds, enabling long-range strike capabilities.
  • Provides sustained thrust at speeds greater than Mach 5.
  • Enhances India's defense capabilities by enabling faster, more maneuverable weapons.
How Scramjet Engines Work?
  1. Air Intake: The engine takes in supersonic airflow as the vehicle moves forward.
  2. Compression: Incoming air is compressed due to the engine’s shape (without rotating components).
  3. Fuel Injection: Supersonic air mixes with the injected fuel (endothermic fuel).
  4. Combustion: Fuel burns in the supersonic airflow, producing high-speed exhaust.
  5. Thrust Generation: The expanding exhaust gases generate thrust, propelling the vehicle at hypersonic speeds.
Applications of Scramjet Technology
  • Hypersonic Cruise Missiles: Capable of flying at Mach 5+ speeds.
  • Space Launch Vehicles: Reduces the cost of launching satellites.
  • High-Speed Military Aircraft: Future fighter jets with hypersonic capabilities.
  • Space Exploration: Potential use in interplanetary missions for fast space travel.
India’s Hypersonic Program and Global Context
  • India has been actively developing hypersonic propulsion technology under DRDO and ISRO.
  • In September 2020, India successfully tested the Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle (HSTDV).
  • Nations like USA, Russia, and China are also investing heavily in hypersonic weapons and spaceplanes.
Future Prospects and Impact on National Defense
  • Boosts India’s deterrence capability by enhancing missile speed and evasiveness.
  • Enables long-range precision strikes with minimal detection time.
  • Paves the way for hypersonic spaceplanes and next-gen military technology.
Conclusion

DRDO’s successful scramjet combustor ground test is a game-changer in India’s pursuit of hypersonic technology. It brings the country one step closer to developing cutting-edge hypersonic missile systems and achieving self-reliance in advanced defense technologies.

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