ISRO has successfully generated electricity using hydrogen and oxygen in outer space. The primary achievement in space-based power generation has been accomplished through the trial of the Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) in the PS4 (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle) rocket. The 100W class Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Power Station is being utilized on the PS4 rocket launched on January 1.
Operating at an altitude of 350 kilometres from Earth, ISRO has produced 180 volts of electricity through the fuel cell. The fuel cell releases only water as a by-product, utilizing hydrogen and oxygen from space for electricity generation. The Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) was tested for this purpose. The successful utilization of the 100W class Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Power Station on the Polar Orbiting Earth Observation Mission 3 (POEM3) satellite was demonstrated.
This breakthrough demonstrates the most viable energy source for space utilization, as fuel cells are capable of harnessing energy in the high-radiation and vacuum conditions of space. The fuel cell efficiently utilizes hydrogen and oxygen, substances readily available in space, for electricity production. The test was conducted after a similar experiment in the United States. ISRO’s initiative marks a significant step towards establishing a self-sustaining space-based power system in the coming years.
