Source: The Hindu, Indian Express

ISRO successfully tested the bootstrap mode start of the CE20 cryogenic engine used in the LVM3 rocket’s upper stage, enhancing restart capability and mission flexibility for future deep-space and human missions

Static Information

Source: ISRO official website, “Cryogenic Propulsion Systems” – ISRO; LVM3 Mission Profile

1. Cryogenic engines use liquid oxygen (LOX) and liquid hydrogen (LH2) at extremely low temperatures.

2. Cryogenic propulsion provides the highest efficiency among chemical rockets due to high specific impulse.

3. India’s cryogenic development began in the 1990s after restrictions on foreign technology transfer.

4. CE20 is India’s most powerful cryogenic engine, developed indigenously for LVM3, which can launch 4-tonne class satellites.

5. LVM3 is India’s heavy-lift rocket, used for Chandrayaan-2, Chandrayaan-3, and commercial missions under NSIL.

6. Cryogenic restart capability is crucial for interplanetary missions, multi-burn manoeuvres, and precise orbit insertion.

7. Bootstrap mode start enhances autonomy, reduces dependency on support systems, and improves reliability in deep-space operations.

Practice Question

Q1. With reference to ISRO’s CE20 cryogenic engine, consider the following statements:

1. The CE20 engine is used in the upper stage of the LVM3 rocket.

2. Bootstrap mode allows the engine to start without external initiation support.
3. LVM3 is India’s first rocket to use a cryogenic engine in its booster stage.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only

B. 2 and 3 only

C. 1 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

Correct Answer: A