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![In late June, India successfully launched a record 20 satellites with one rocket from the southern spaceport of Sriharikota [Xinhua]](http://thebricspost.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/256053601_8-e1473338789753.jpg)
In late June, India successfully launched a record 20 satellites with one rocket from the southern spaceport of Sriharikota [Xinhua]
The ISRO GSLV F05 rocket was initially delayed for less than an hour as engineers double checked their systems but launched at 4:50 local time from Sriharikota in the eastern state of Andhra Pradesh.
It was carrying the advanced weather satellite INSAT-3DR.
The GSLV F05 for the first time used a cryogenic engine developed by Indian scientists. The engine is based on cryogenic fuels – gasses stored at very low temperatures.
The INSAT-3DR will remain in geosynchronous orbit and can be used to assist in earth surface rescue operations.
In late August, India became only the fourth country in history to employ scramjet engines in the launch and propulsion of space rockets.
Scramjet technology relies on hydrogen as fuel while oxygen from the air is used as an oxidizer to burn the fuel. Combustion occurs externally while the craft is moving at supersonic speeds.
While the US has already used scramjet engines, China and Russia are also developing the technology.
New Delhi is aiming to expand the country’s influence in the competitive $300 billion global space industry.
Read more: A BRICS space race?
The BRICS Post with inputs from Agencies
