Satellite Orbiting Rocket Number 420 (Indonesian: Roket Pengorbit Satelit 420, abbreviated as RPS-420), or Pengorbitan-1, was a proposed space launch vehicle under consideration in Indonesia from 2008 to 2012.
However, the goal remains valid: Indonesia aims to reach orbit with self-made rockets and satellites in order to become an Asian space power.
Several multistage launchers are being developed by the state company Spacetecx for Indonesia's National Institute of Aeronautics and Space (LAPAN).
[needs update] Currently, Indonesian RX rockets have suborbital capabilities only and could serve as a platform for high altitude outer atmosphere studies.
[5] Diameter: 42 cm (17 in) Length: 620 cm (240 in) Lift-off mass: 1,000 kg (2,200 lb) Propellant: solid composite, firing time 13 seconds Thrust: 9.6 t (9.4 long tons; 10.6 short tons) Flight duration: 205 seconds Maximum velocity: Mach 4.5 Range: 101 km (63 mi), 53,000 m (174,000 ft) of altitude Payload: diagnostic, GPS, altimeter, gyroscope, 3-axis accelerometer, processor and battery The RX-420 was entirely built using local materials.
Addition of RX-420 boosters to the RX-520 is calculated to increase lifting capacity to 500 kg+ payload, although if too expensive, the proven Russian Soyuz and Energia will likely be employed.