Daily Current Affairs : 28-October-2024
In December 2024, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch its first home-grown electric propulsion-led spacecraft, the Technology Demonstrator Satellite (TDS-1). This marks a significant milestone for ISRO, as it demonstrates a major shift in satellite technology. The goal is to make satellites lighter, more efficient, and reduce reliance on chemical fuel by using electric propulsion.
What is Electric Propulsion?
Electric propulsion (EPS) is a technology that uses ionized gas, powered by solar energy, to create thrust for spacecraft. Unlike traditional chemical propulsion, which burns fuel to generate force, EPS relies on the movement of charged particles to push the satellite forward. This allows for a more efficient and less resource-intensive journey into space.
Purpose of TDS-1
The primary aim of TDS-1 is to showcase the potential of electric propulsion for future satellites. By replacing chemical fuel with solar-powered ionized gas, the satellite will use significantly less fuel, reducing its weight and enhancing its performance. TDS-1 will demonstrate how electric propulsion can help satellites reach their destination in geostationary orbit with greater efficiency.
Key Benefits of Electric Propulsion
- Lighter Satellites: Electric propulsion reduces the satellite’s overall mass by cutting down on the amount of fuel needed. For example, a satellite weighing four tonnes can be reduced to just two tonnes.
- Cost-Efficient: By minimizing fuel requirements, electric propulsion also reduces the cost of launching and maintaining satellites.
- Environmental Impact: With lower fuel consumption, the technology offers a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional methods.
How Does It Work?
Electric propulsion uses gases like Argon as fuel. These gases are ionized using solar power to create a stream of charged particles, which provide thrust. This process is much more efficient than chemical propulsion, allowing satellites to make long-duration adjustments in their orbits with minimal fuel consumption.
Historical Context
While electric propulsion is not a new concept, ISRO has previously used similar technology in the GSAT-9 (South Asia Satellite) launched in 2017. However, that mission relied on imported Russian components. TDS-1 will be the first satellite fully developed and built by ISRO, showcasing the country’s growing space capabilities and technological autonomy.
Significance for ISRO
The successful demonstration of electric propulsion by TDS-1 is a major achievement for ISRO. It marks a step toward India’s space autonomy, as the satellite’s technology is entirely developed domestically. The successful use of EPS in TDS-1 could revolutionize satellite design, reducing costs and improving long-term sustainability in space missions.
Important Points:
- Launch Date: TDS-1, ISRO’s first home-grown electric propulsion satellite, will be launched in December 2024.
- Electric Propulsion: The satellite will use solar-powered ionized gas (electric propulsion) instead of traditional chemical fuel.
- Purpose: Demonstrate the efficiency of electric propulsion in reducing satellite weight and fuel consumption.
- Benefits:
- Significantly lighter satellites (e.g., a 4-tonne satellite can be reduced to 2 tonnes).
- Cost-effective due to reduced fuel and maintenance needs.
- More environmentally friendly with lower fuel consumption.
- How it Works: Gases like Argon are ionized by solar power to create propulsion.
- Previous Use: Electric propulsion was first used by ISRO in the GSAT-9 satellite (South Asia Satellite) in 2017, with imported components.
- Domestic Development: TDS-1 will be the first electric propulsion satellite fully developed by ISRO.
- Significance: Marks a major step towards India’s space autonomy and technological advancement.
- Impact on Future Missions: Could lead to more efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective space missions in the future.
Why In News
To make its satellites lighter and more efficient in the future, ISRO is set to launch its first home-grown electric propulsion-led spacecraft, the Technology Demonstrator Satellite (TDS-1), in December, marking a significant leap toward cutting-edge space technology and reducing reliance on traditional chemical fuels.
MCQs about ISRO’s TDS-1: Pioneering Electric Propulsion for Satellites
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What is the primary purpose of ISRO’s Technology Demonstrator Satellite (TDS-1)?
A. To test a new satellite design
B. To demonstrate electric propulsion technology
C. To develop a new satellite communication system
D. To launch a satellite into Mars orbit
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Which gas is primarily used for propulsion in ISRO’s TDS-1 satellite?
A. Nitrogen
B. Oxygen
C. Argon
D. Carbon dioxide
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What is the key benefit of using electric propulsion in satellites?
A. Increased satellite size
B. Reduced weight and fuel consumption
C. Faster speed in orbit
D. Longer lifespan of satellites
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What distinguishes TDS-1 from previous ISRO missions using electric propulsion?
A. TDS-1 is the first satellite to use chemical propulsion
B. TDS-1 uses imported technology
C. TDS-1 is the first electric propulsion satellite developed entirely by ISRO
D. TDS-1 will travel to the Moon
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