India`s first reusable hybrid rocket, RHUMI-1, was launched from Thiruvidandhai, Chennai, on Saturday morning. Developed by Chennai-based startup Space Zone India, RHUMI-1 carried 3 Cube satellites and 50 PICO satellites on a suborbital mission to gather data on global warming and climate change.
Equipped with a hybrid motor and an electrically triggered parachute deployer, RHUMI-1 is completely pyrotechnic-free. The mission is led by Anand Megalingam, founder of Space Zone India, under the mentorship of Dr. Mylswamy Annadurai, former Director of ISRO Satellite Centre.
Space Zone India, specializing in low-cost aerospace solutions, also provides hands-on training in aerodynamic principles, satellite, drone, and rocket technology for students and educational institutions. In 2023, the company involved over 2,500 students in the "Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Students Satellite Launch" program, where they contributed to designing and building a satellite launch vehicle.