Bengaluru-based Bellatrix Aerospace tests green satellite propulsion
- ByStartupStory | May 9, 2022
The Bengaluru-based Bellatrix Aerospace has recently tested an eco-friendly propulsion system for satellites that forms a new path from the hydrazine-dependent fuel systems and provides 20% jump in fuel efficiency for space satellites said Yashas Karanam, the co-founder of Bellatrix Aerospace. Bellatrix is an aerospace manufacturer and small satellite company established in 2015.
Since Hydrazine is known to have a severe impact on the environment, it has pushed the space researchers to find its eco-friendly alternatives. The company’s recent testing also becomes a key infection point in the startup’s journey in providing a space taxi system for satellites.
Karanam also said that if not handled with care and proper safety, every rocket fuel can be dangerous although the green propellant has significantly lower toxicity as compared to Hydrazine which makes it safer to store and handle. The startup would very soon look forward towards its commercialisation and also to transforming it into a product by the next year. The company also believes that human space flight missionscan also be an ideal instance for the green propellant, he furtheradded.
ISRO addressed that the Union Government has approved three missions including two unmanned and one crewed mission as part of its Gaganyaan Mission worth Rs 9,023 crore. Bellatrix is among the clutch of new age space tech startups in India that have taken venture capital funds to reach out to the important frontiers in a global race towards superior space programs.
Prof Charlie Oommen, the chief research scientist-propulsion at Indian Institute of Science said that the work on green propulsion is very much important as the world is drifting towards green chemicals and aligning with the latest advancements is important for India. Also, ISRO has also announced that it will work towards the usage of green fuels that is recently tested by Bellatrix Aerospace as it offers both benign handling facilities and higher performance rather than conventionally used toxic chemicals like Hydrazine and so it seems more promising.
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