Green Hydrogen: The Fuel of the Future

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Green Hydrogen: The Fuel of the Future Soleman Ali  June 15, 2025 In an era where the fight against climate change has become a global priority, green hydrogen has emerged as one of the most promising solutions. As countries race to meet their net-zero goals and shift to sustainable sources of energy, green hydrogen is capturing the imagination of scientists, industries, and governments alike. But what exactly is green hydrogen? How does it differ from other types of hydrogen? And how can it revolutionize the global energy landscape? Let’s dive deep into the fascinating world of green hydrogen—the clean fuel of the future. --- What is Green Hydrogen? Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe and has long been considered a powerful energy carrier. However, not all hydrogen is created equal. Green hydrogen is hydrogen gas that is produced using renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, or hydropower. The process involves splitting water (H₂O) into hydrogen...

India’s Space Missions: From Chandrayaan to Gaganyaan

 

India’s Space Missions: From Chandrayaan to Gaganyaan

Soleman Ali 
June 15, 2025

India’s journey into space has been awe-inspiring. From humble beginnings in the 1960s to making global headlines with Chandrayaan and the ambitious Gaganyaan mission, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has become a symbol of innovation, determination, and scientific excellence.

A Brief History of ISRO: The Launch of a Vision

ISRO was established in 1969 under the Department of Atomic Energy by Dr. Vikram Sarabhai. The goal was to use space technology for national development and self-reliance.

In 1975, India launched its first satellite Aryabhata with the help of the Soviet Union. In 1980, Rohini RS-1 became the first Indian satellite placed into orbit by an Indian rocket (SLV-3).

Timeline of Major ISRO Missions

Chandrayaan-1 (2008)

India’s first mission to the Moon aimed to create a 3D map and search for water. It carried 11 scientific instruments and collaborated with NASA and ESA. It confirmed the presence of water molecules on the lunar surface.

Mangalyaan / Mars Orbiter Mission (2013)

India became the first Asian nation to reach Mars and the first in the world to succeed in its first attempt. It cost just $74 million and studied Martian atmosphere and surface. NASA supported communication via its Deep Space Network.

Chandrayaan-2 (2019)

This mission included an orbiter, lander (Vikram), and rover (Pragyan). The lander lost communication, but the orbiter remains functional and continues to send data.

PSLV-C37 (2017)

ISRO set a world record by launching 104 satellites in one go. It marked India’s growing role in the global space commerce sector.

Chandrayaan-3 (2023)

This mission achieved a successful landing on the Moon’s south pole on August 23, 2023, making India the first country to do so. It regained international acclaim and continued ISRO’s legacy after the partial failure of Chandrayaan-2.

Gaganyaan: India’s First Human Spaceflight

The Gaganyaan mission aims to send three Indian astronauts into low-Earth orbit for 3 to 7 days using GSLV Mk III (LVM-3). Infrastructure for astronaut training and mission control is being developed in Bengaluru.

Timeline

  • Gaganyaan-1 (Uncrewed): Scheduled for 2025
  • Crewed Mission: Expected by 2025–26

Technologies Involved

Key technologies include life support systems, re-entry capsules, thermal protection, crew escape systems, and astronaut training in partnership with Russia’s Roscosmos.

Key Technologies Behind ISRO Missions

  • Launch Vehicles: PSLV, GSLV Mk II/III, and SSLV
  • Navigation: NavIC satellite positioning
  • Deep Space Network: Used for communication with far-away satellites
  • Autonomous Systems: Used in Chandrayaan-3 for precision landing

International Collaborations

Partner Collaborations
NASA (USA) Chandrayaan-1, NISAR Earth mission
Roscosmos (Russia) Astronaut training for Gaganyaan
CNES (France) Climate satellites, Oceansat program
ESA (Europe) Communication, data sharing

Satellite Missions for Earth and Beyond

India has launched numerous Earth observation satellites like Cartosat and INSAT for weather, disaster monitoring, and agriculture. Communication satellites like the GSAT series support television and internet connectivity. Astrosat studies cosmic phenomena, and Aditya-L1 will study the Sun.

Space Commerce and Private Sector Growth

NSIL (NewSpace India Limited) is expanding ISRO’s commercial outreach by launching satellites for over 30 countries. Private startups like Skyroot, Agnikul, and Pixxel are building their own rockets and satellites under new liberalized space policies.

Upcoming and Future Missions

Mission Goal Timeline
Gaganyaan First Indian human spaceflight 2025–26
NISAR Earth science satellite with NASA 2024
Shukrayaan-1 Venus orbiter mission Post-2026
LUPEX Lunar polar exploration with JAXA Planning
Aditya-L2 Advanced solar mission Planning

What Makes ISRO Stand Out

  • Cost-Effective: Achieving major milestones with minimal budget
  • Indigenous Development: Cryogenic engines, launch vehicles, and more
  • Application-Oriented: Focus on agriculture, education, disaster relief
  • Global Recognition: Credible agency with worldwide respect

Conclusion

From Aryabhata to Gaganyaan, ISRO has grown into one of the most respected space agencies in the world. With ambitious future plans and increasing international collaboration, India’s presence in space will only grow stronger. The journey is far from over, and the next chapter promises even greater achievements.

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