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In an effort to bolster indigenous capabilities in the space sector, the Technology Development Board (TDB) under the Department of Science & Technology (DST) has unveiled its financial backing for a pioneering project aimed at advancing space-grade solar array fabrication and testing processes. This strategic move underscores TDB’s unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and technological excellence in space engineering within the country.
The project, a significant milestone in India’s journey towards space indigenisation, is a collaborative effort between TDB and a player in the space engineering domain. Under the project’s ambit, revolutionary advancements in solar array technology are set to be realised, with a focus on addressing the stringent requirements of spacecraft applications.
A key highlight of the project lies in its innovative approach towards materials and manufacturing techniques. Leveraging cutting-edge materials such as carbon fibre and specialised resins, the project aims to enhance the performance and durability of solar arrays, thereby ensuring optimal functionality in the challenging space environment. Additionally, novel methodologies in solar cell assembly (SCA), including innovative stringing and bonding techniques, are poised to redefine the standards of efficiency and reliability in space-grade solar panels.
With an ambitious target of achieving up to 30% efficiency using triple-junction GaAs technology, the project sets a new benchmark for solar array performance in the aerospace industry. Furthermore, the development of a dedicated test facility will play a pivotal role in validating the reliability and compliance of space-grade solar arrays.
Comprehensive mechanical, electrical, and environmental tests, including vibration, shock, sun simulation, thermo-vacuum conditions, and zero-gravity deployment simulations, will ensure the robustness and resilience of the solar arrays under real-world space conditions.
Speaking on the initiative, Sh. Rajesh Kumar Pathak, Secretary of TDB, expressed his enthusiasm for the project’s potential to propel India’s space engineering capabilities to unprecedented heights. He emphasised TDB’s strategic focus on promoting indigenous innovation and nurturing a vibrant ecosystem for technological advancements in critical sectors such as space engineering.
Furthermore, he underscored the pivotal role of TDB in supporting groundbreaking initiatives that contribute to India’s global recognition as a leader in advanced space technologies.
The collaboration between TDB and the project stakeholders exemplifies a strategic synergy aimed at realising India’s vision of self-reliance and technological prowess in the space domain. By harnessing the collective expertise and resources of both entities, the project is poised to catalyse a paradigm shift in the landscape of space-grade solar array technology, setting new standards of excellence and innovation in the global aerospace industry.
Looking ahead, the project holds immense promise for driving socio-economic growth and fostering international collaboration in space exploration endeavours. Through sustained investments and strategic partnerships, India is well-positioned to carve a niche for itself as a frontrunner in advanced space technologies, thereby shaping the future of space exploration and innovation on a global scale.
IIT Madras has collaborated with a French aerospace and defence firm to establish a start-up hub with a substantial funding commitment of €100 million. It will focus on nurturing start-ups within the Aviation, Space, and Defence sectors in India to accelerate the ASD ecosystem’s evolution.
An OpenGov Asia article highlighted the significant roles of the Space Economy in India’s future growth trajectory as articulated by Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh. Amid India’s robust economic expansion, he underscored the potential of this sector to drive further prosperity.
Currently estimated at US$8.4 billion, constituting 2-3% of the global space economy, India’s space sector is poised for exponential growth. With the implementation of the Indian Space Policy 2023, Dr Jitendra Singh projected that India’s space economy could reach US$44 billion by 2033, opening up new vistas of opportunity and innovation.
