Evaluate the following statements related to reusable launch vehicles (RLVs):
Statement 1: RLVs are being explored primarily to enhance launch efficiency and reduce the recurring cost of satellite deployment.
Statement 2: The development of RLVs increases operational complexity, making them less viable compared to traditional expendable systems.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Answer: Only Statement 1 is correct.
Explanation:
Reusable Launch Vehicles (RLVs) represent the future of space technology. Statement 1 is absolutely correct, as the primary objective behind developing RLVs is to reduce the recurring cost of placing satellites into orbit. Traditional rockets are expended after reaching space, whereas RLVs can return to Earth and be reused. Statement 2 is incorrect; although developing RLVs is technically more complex, this does not render them 'less viable.' On the contrary, in the long run, this makes space missions highly cost-effective and sustainable, thereby making them more viable than traditional systems. ISRO's 'RLV-TD' and SpaceX's 'Falcon 9' are prime examples of this.
Additional Points:
ISRO's Achievement: ISRO recently successfully tested the Autonomous Landing Mission (LEX) of its RLV prototype, named 'Pushpak'.
Cost Reduction: Through the use of RLVs, the cost of launching payloads into space can be reduced to approximately one-tenth of current costs.
Potential Exam Questions and Answers:
Question: What is the name of ISRO's Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) prototype?
Answer: RLV-TD or 'Pushpak'.
Question: What is the primary economic benefit of RLV technology?
Answer: A significant reduction in launch costs and the repeated reuse of rocket components.