Why in the News
India’s defence PSU Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and space-tech startup Bellatrix Aerospace have signed an MoU to jointly develop Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) satellite systems.
What is VLEO (Very Low Earth Orbit)?
- Altitude: About 150 km to 450 km above Earth.
- Lower than Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites.
- Satellites experience thin atmospheric drag, requiring propulsion systems to maintain orbit.
How VLEO Satellites Work
- At low altitude, satellites face aerodynamic drag from the upper atmosphere.
- Advanced propulsion systems provide continuous thrust to maintain orbital position.
- Bellatrix will use electric/green propulsion technologies for station-keeping.
Key Features of VLEO Systems
- High-Resolution Imaging: Closer proximity to Earth enables sub-meter imaging using smaller sensors.
- Ultra-Low Latency Communication: Shorter signal distance enables faster data transmission and real-time communication.
- Lower Launch Costs: Lower orbit requires less fuel to deploy satellites.
- Reduced Space Debris: Failed satellites naturally re-enter and burn up due to atmospheric drag.
Aim of the Partnership
- Develop indigenous VLEO satellite platforms and payloads.
- Provide solutions for defence and civilian applications.
- Combine PSU manufacturing capability with startup innovation.
Strategic Significance
- Strengthens India’s self-reliance in space technology.
- Enables high-resolution surveillance and intelligence gathering.
- Useful for:
- Border monitoring
- Earth observation
- Real-time communication systems.
Prelims Pointers
- Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) operates under the Ministry of Defence.
- Bellatrix Aerospace develops satellite propulsion systems.
- VLEO satellites orbit at lower altitude than conventional Earth-observation satellites, offering improved imaging and reduced debris risk.
| [2011] An artificial satellite orbiting around the Earth does not fall down. This is so because the attraction of Earth (a) does not exist at such a distance. (b) is neutralized by the attraction of the moon. (c) provides the necessary speed for its steady motion. (d) provides the necessary acceleration for its motion |
