Recently, ISRO successfully carried out the sea level hot test of its CE20 Cryogenic Engine at ISRO Propulsion Complex, Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu.
About Cryogenic Engine
- Cryogenic technology involves using rocket propellants at extremely low temperatures, such as liquid oxygen (LOX) and Liquid Hydrogen (LH2), which are combined as fuel and oxidizer in various proportions.
- Liquid oxygen stays in its liquid state at temperatures below -183°C, while liquid hydrogen remains liquid below -253°C.
Features of CE20 Cryogenic Engine
- Engine Restart Capability: It features a multi-element igniter for restarting, crucial for missions like Gaganyaan, ensuring reliable performance in space.
- Nozzle Protection System: A new Nozzle Protection System was tested to prevent flow separation and vibrations, improving engine performance and testing efficiency.
Significance of Cryogenic engines for India’s Space Programs
- Boost to space program: Cryogenic engines boost rocket efficiency and thrust, enabling India to launch powerful rockets with higher payloads for missions like Gaganyaan, satellite launches, and interplanetary exploration.
- Indigenous development and self-Reliance: India's mastery of cryogenic technology reduces reliance on foreign technology.
- India is one of six countries, along with the US, France, Russia, China, and Japan, to have developed its own cryogenic engines.
- Enhanced payload capacity: Cryogenic engines offer higher specific impulse, enabling rockets to carry heavier payloads.
