Hack-proof communication network, self-eating-rockets, vanishing-satellites: Isro working on disruptive future tech
New technologies like self-eating rockets will revolutionise the space sector, which is marred by growing concerns about space debris.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) is working on several key technologies as the space race intensifies. The Indian space agency is exploring new tools from quantum communications to self-vanishing satellites to humanoid robots to sharpen its edges as it competes with global giants like Nasa and Roscosmos.
Isro chairman K Sivan on Tuesday highlighted the new technologies at the 'DTDI-Technology-Conclave-2021, a summit aimed at unlocking the potential tech for the space sector.
Sivan mentioned a plethora of futuristic technologies on which Isro has initiated research and development, including satellite-based quantum communication, quantum radar, self-eating-rocket, self-vanishing-satellite, self-healing materials, humanoid robotics, space-based-solar-power, intelligent satellites and space-vehicles, make-in-space concept, artificial-intelligence-based space applications among others.
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New technologies like self-eating rockets will revolutionise the space sector, which is marred by growing concerns about space debris. Recent debris created by an anti-satellite test from Russia had endangered not just the International Space Station (ISS) but also the astronauts onboard. Isro is working on finding a solution to debris created from defunct satellites in orbit or rocket boosters and payload fairings that remain in orbit post launch.
Meanwhile, its research on quantum communication will make the relay faster and much more secure in the coming era of quantum computers that explore quantum mechanics. Isro tested this technology in an open space separated by 300 meters earlier this year. China already has a satellite dedicated to quantum information science, Micius, and demonstrated quantum communication in a laboratory over a coiled optical fibre up to 404 kilometers long.
"Isro has initiated its Research & Development initiatives, with well-defined milestones and deliverables," the agency said in a statement.
The conclave was inaugurated by Minister of State (Space) Dr. Jitendra Singh, who released the proceedings compendium of the technology conclave. He congratulated the space agency for its futuristic technological endeavour and mentioned that these technologies will take India's space capabilities to the next level. Meanwhile, he also spoke about the increasing synergy between the scientific and technological expertise of Isro, DOS laboratories, academia, industries, and international experts.
Prof. K Vijay Raghavan, Principal Scientific Advisor to the government said that Isro will reap the fruits of the disruptive new technologies in coming decades.
"The futuristic and disruptive technology projects are being materialised by the scientists and engineers of Isro/DOS at its various centres throughout the country. In this coordinated effort, Isro synergises the technological capabilities of its centres and laboratories, as well as collaborates with national and international experts, to achieve bigger technology goals," Dr K Sivan said during the conclave.