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CE20 Cryogenic Engine Passes Critical Test
Context:
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved a significant milestone in its space program with the successful sea-level hot test of the CE20 Cryogenic Engine, which has been developed indigenously.
More on News:
- The test was conducted on November 29 in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, and the results were confirmed after a thorough analysis.
- The test confirmed the successful performance of the engine, which powers the upper stage of ISRO’s LVM3 launch vehicle.
- The CE20 engine has been instrumental in missions such as Chandrayaan-2, Chandrayaan-3, and will play a crucial role in ISRO’s upcoming Gaganyaan mission, India’s first human spaceflight attempt.
Key Highlights:
- Engine Success: The CE20 engine has successfully powered the upper stage of six LVM3 missions and will enhance the payload capability of future missions, including Gaganyaan.
- Complex Testing: Testing the engine at sea level is particularly challenging due to factors like multi-element ignitor and water injection systems at the nozzle divergent to prevent flow separation.
- ISRO also developed an innovative Nozzle Protection System, which enables a cost-effective and less complex acceptance testing procedure for cryogenic engines.
- Restart Capability: One of the significant challenges in cryogenic engine technology is restarting the engine. ISRO has overcome this by demonstrating vacuum ignition without nozzle closure in previous ground tests, showcasing its advanced engineering capabilities.
Significance:
- The successful test of the CE20 cryogenic engine is a testament to ISRO’s advanced engineering capabilities and its commitment to self-reliance in critical space technologies.
- This milestone paves the way for more efficient engine testing and ensures the reliability of ISRO’s launch vehicles for future missions.
