Lahore mein aaj sehri ka time kya hai? Other cities of Pakistan different
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Lahore mein aaj sehri ka time kya hai 2026? -
📡 Technical Breakdown: The Pre-Launch Communication Linksaid in 📡 Technical Breakdown: The Pre-Launch Communication Link:
said in 📡 Technical Breakdown: The Pre-Launch Communication Link:
Would you like to see a comparison of the different propulsion systems (Chemical vs. Electric) used by these satellites to stay in orbit?
Once a Pakistani satellite reaches its target orbit, its survival depends on its Propulsion System. For decades, satellites used liquid chemicals (combustion), but recent missions like PakSat-MM1 and the newest PRSC series are increasingly moving toward Electric Propulsion (EP).
Think of it as the difference between a high-octane drag racer and a solar-powered marathon runner.
🏎️ Chemical Propulsion: The “Old Guard”
Chemical propulsion relies on a rapid exothermic reaction (combustion) of fuel and an oxidizer.
- How it works: Liquid propellants (like Hydrazine) are mixed and ignited, shooting hot gas out of a nozzle.
- Best For: Fast maneuvers, like the initial “Apogee Kick” to get into orbit or rapid collision avoidance.
- The Downside: It’s heavy. Half the weight of a traditional satellite is often just the fuel tank.
⚡ Electric Propulsion (Ion/Hall Thrusters): The “New Frontier”
Electric propulsion uses electricity from the satellite’s solar panels to accelerate gas (typically Xenon or Argon) using magnetic or electric fields.
- How it works: It strips electrons from atoms to create ions, then uses a high-voltage grid to “spit” them out at incredible speeds—up to m/s.
- Best For: Long-term “Station Keeping” (staying in the right spot) and deep-space missions.
- The Downside: The thrust is tiny (about the weight of a sheet of paper), so it takes months to change an orbit.
📊 Side-by-Side: Which is Better for Pakistan?
Feature Chemical Propulsion Electric Propulsion (EP) Thrust Level High (Instant speed) Low (Gradual speed) Fuel Efficiency Low (s) Extreme (–s) Mission Life 10–15 years (Fuel limited) 20+ years (Efficiency limited) Launch Weight Very Heavy (Bulky tanks) Light (Saves 30–50% mass) Primary Use Launch/Orbit Insertion Orbit Maintenance/Station Keeping The “Hybrid” Strategy
Most modern SUPARCO satellites now use a Hybrid System:
- Chemical: For the fast ride from the rocket drop-off point to the Geostationary belt.
- Electric: Once parked, it switches to electric thrusters for the next 15 years to stay perfectly aligned with Pakistan’s ground stations. This allows the satellite to carry more “Payload” (better cameras and more transponders) instead of heavy fuel.
❓ FAQ: The Future of SUPARCO’s Engines
Q: Does Electric Propulsion work in a vacuum?
A: It only works in a vacuum. The thrust is so low that even a tiny bit of air resistance on Earth would stop it from moving.Q: Is Xenon fuel expensive?
A: Yes, Xenon is rare and can cost over $3,000/kg. However, because the system is so efficient, you only need a small amount compared to tons of chemical fuel.Q: Can we see these thrusters firing?
A: Chemical thrusters produce a visible flame. Electric thrusters produce a ghostly blue or violet glow (plasma), which is often captured by “Selfie-Cams” on modern satellites.
Would you like to explain how the “Solar Arrays” on these satellites are designed to power such high-energy electric thrusters?