Akash: From Hindu Cosmology to Modern Missile Technology
The term Akash has a rich cultural and scientific history, encompassing various meanings in Hindu spirituality, traditional Indian cosmology, and modern military technology. This article explores the multifaceted significance of Akash in these diverse contexts.
Definition in Hindu Spirituality
Akash, also known as ākāa in Sanskrit, holds a significant place in Hindu spirituality. In traditional Indian cosmology, it is the primordial essence or substance that pervades all of creation. It is often seen as the essence of space or the fundamental celestial element of ether. In Hindu literature and mythology, Akash represents the void or space around us, which we see as the sky. In the Urdu language, another word for sky is aasmaaN, which carries a similar meaning to Akash.
Phenomena and Metaphysics
The term Akash is also used in various modern Indo-Aryan and Dravidian languages, often with a generic meaning related to space or sky. It can be associated with different phenomena and metaphysical concepts. In traditional Indian cosmology, Akash is one of the five primary substances, alongside earth, water, fire, and air. These five elements form the basis of material and metaphysical existence according to the Vaiseshika Sutras, a early book on physics by Subhash Kak.
Akash as a Missile System
In the realm of modern technology, Akash is a Surface to Air Missile (SAM) system currently in service with the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force (IAF). This system was jointly developed by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and other public sector units. The Akash missile is a medium-range missile capable of intercepting aerial targets up to 30 kilometers away. It can be launched from both tracked and wheeled platforms, demonstrating its versatility and strategic importance.
Propulsion and Technology
The Akash missile is a two-stage SAM, with an initial Solid Rocket Motor (SRM) booster providing the initial propulsion. After the initial burnout, a ramjet-rocket propulsion system sustains the missile's thrust throughout its flight, enabling it to reach supersonic speeds, approximately Mach 2.5. The reflective nature of a ramjet propulsion system ensures sustained speed without deceleration, a critical feature for effective interception.
Control and Guidance System
The missile's guidance and control are managed by an on-board system, including an actuator system that allows the missile to maneuver up to 15g loads. The missile is guided towards its target using an Inertial Navigation System (INS) and onboard tracking seekers for pitch/yaw control. For roll control, four inline clipped delta fins with ailerons are mounted before the tail. Ground-based command systems, often denoted as a Battery Control System, control the guidance and navigation of the missile.
Radar and Detection Capabilities
The Akash system is equipped with a Passive Electronically Scanned Array (PESA) radar, capable of multifunction operations including surveillance, tracking, and interception. The radar can track up to 64 targets and engage up to 12 at once. For long-range detection, the 3D Central Acquisition Radar (3D CAR) functions as a surveillance radar, capable of tracking up to 200 targets at a range of 180 kilometers.
New Developments
DRDO continues to advance the Akash missile technology with the development of the Akash Next Generation (NG) system. The Akash NG uses an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and a dual-pulse solid rocket motor, expanding the missile's range to 40-70 kilometers. Additionally, the Akash 1S and Akash Prime (Akash P) missiles are being deployed, further enhancing India's missile capabilities.
For more information on Akash, visit the official DRDO website or read the latest reports from leading defense and technology journals.
K.N. is a content creator and SEO expert specializing in technology and military strategy. His insights and analyses are valuable for understanding the significance and advancements of Akash.
Image Credit: DRDO, Indian Army, and Indian Air Force