India developing semi-cryogenic tech to launch 6-ton satellite

India's space scientists are developing semi-cryogenic propulsion technology using kerosene that is expected to give the country the capability to launch six-tonne class satellite, almost three times the weight its rockets can currently handle.

The cryogenic technology uses liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen, whereas in semi-cryogenic technology, instead of liquid hydrogen, pure kerosene(aviation-grade) is used, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairman K Radhakrishnan said.

"...the cost becomes far, far less (in semi-cryogenic technology using kerosene)," he said in his inaugural address to the 23rd national convention of aerospace engineers with the theme "Infrastructure development for growth of civil aviation and aerospace technology in India" here.

The semi-cryogenic technology, part of ISRO's efforts to cut down costs of space projects, would give a better density impulse which makes it a "good candidate for the booster status".

The technology would enable the home-built GSLV rocket to launch six-tonne class satellites. India's current GSLV-Mk II has the capacity to launch only satellites weighing a maximum of 2.2 tonnes, Radhakrishnan said.