Advanced Rocket Propulsion Systems: Foundations, Innovations, and Applications in Space Exploration

Rocket propulsion is at the centre of modern space exploration and has opened the doors for humanity to reach greater heights, deeper into space, and the more difficult profiles of missions. The rapid development of materials, combustion technologies, hybrid systems, and electric propulsion has led to the evolution of the field at an exceptional rate. An understanding of these systems is a prerequisite for the development of launch vehicles and spacecraft that are not only safe and efficient but also eco-friendly.

The book Advanced Rocket Propulsion Systems: Foundations, Innovations, and Applications in Space Exploration gives a detailed account of all the conventional and emerging propulsion technologies. It discusses the basic principles, thermochemical processes, engine cycles, nozzle performance, hybrid and electric propulsion systems, and eco-friendly propellants. The book provides the readers with access to the latest global advancements in aerospace propulsion through simple and easy to comprehend explanations as well as revealing insights. Besides aerospace engineers, propulsion scientists, and space technology practitioners the book is for general readers who wish to acquire a firm understanding of contemporary rocket propulsion systems. Furthermore, it is an excellent resource for educational institutions and young engineers.

Amit Kumar Thakur is a distinguished academician and researcher with over 22 years of academic and industry experience, currently serving as the Professor and Head of the Department of Aerospace Engineering at Lovely Professional University, Punjab, India. He holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, an M.Tech in Thermal Engineering (Honors), and a B.E. in Aeronautical Engineering. His research expertise spans Renewable Energy Technologies, Aerodynamics, Propulsion, and Industry 4.0 Technologies. Dr. Thakur has an extensive record of mentorship, having supervised multiple PhD scholars and numerous M. Tech dissertations in the fields of aerospace engineering, thermal engineering, and hybrid propulsion systems. A prolific innovator, he has over 200 patents published with 22 Innovative Australian Patents, 14 Indian patents, 2 South African granted, including inventions in hybrid rocket engines, aerospace systems, robotics, and IoT-based engineering solutions. He has published over 120 journal articles in Scopus indexed (86 in SCI-indexed journals), in the peer-reviewed international journals, conference proceedings, and book chapters His notable achievements include several Research Excellence Awards (2021–2023) and recognition among the Top 50 Researchers at Lovely Professional University. Dr. Thakur has also been a top performer in NPTEL courses in Aerospace Engineering, earning multiple Elite and Silver Medals in collaboration with IIT Kanpur. He previously worked with DRDO (ADRDE, Agra) as an engineer and has held academic leadership positions in renowned engineering institutions.

Harsimran Kaur is a student in the aerospace engineering department, whose main interest areas are propulsion systems, aerodynamics, and the next generation of aerospace technologies. She is involved with numerous engineering projects covering aspects like aerodynamic modelling, developing of CubeSats, atmospheric sensing payloads, and made use of various computational techniques along with ANSYS and CAD tools. Among her activities is the case of airfoil performance that she has both simulated and experimentally investigated; additionally, she has worked on the development of small satellite prototypes which furthered her knowledge in thrust generation, flow behaviour, and overall aerospace design. She is currently an MRO Data Maintenance Engineer (Apprentice) at Lufthansa Technik Services India, where she supports engineering documentation and technical data validation; experience that has strengthened her precision and technical writing abilities. Her review paper on Shape Memory Alloys showcases her capability to analyse complex engineering topics and communicate them effectively. Having a solid grip on aerospace concepts and a strong interest in the forefront of propulsion technologies, she adds the technical clarity and structured research insight to this book.

Lovi Raj Gupta is the Pro Vice Chancellor of Lovely Professional University and a distinguished leader in technical and higher education. A renowned academician and innovator, he has significantly contributed to advancing research and technology-driven educational practices in India. He holds a PhD in Bioinformatics, an M.Tech. in CAD & Interactive Graphics from IIT Kanpur, and a B.E. (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering. His prolific research portfolio includes 230+ patents filed, 204 published, and 32 granted across India, Australia, and South Africa, along with authorship of 7 books in IoT, robotics, biomedical sensors, machine learning, and data analytics. He has also completed over 50 professional certifications in cutting-edge domains like AI, IoT, and machine learning. Dr. Gupta is a Leading Scientist at Southern Federal University, Russia, working on neuromorphic and memristive materials, and has been a Research Collaborator at Stanford University, contributing to precision farming and water conservation through satellite imagery. Recipient of prestigious honors such as the MIT Technology Review Grand Challenge Award and the Infosys InfyMakers Award, he has also chaired the ASSOCHAM North Region Council for Innovation.