Why in News?
ISRO successfully completed the flight acceptance hot test of the indigenous CE20 cryogenic engine for the upcoming LVM3-M7 mission at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC), Mahendragiri.
What is the CE20 Cryogenic Engine?
- The CE20 is an indigenously developed high-thrust cryogenic rocket engine.
- It powers the upper stage (C25/C32 stage) of India’s Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3).
- It uses liquid hydrogen (LH₂) and liquid oxygen (LOX) as propellants to launch heavy satellites into space.
- Developed by: ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC).
- Testing Facility: ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC), Mahendragiri.
Background
- The CE20 replaced the earlier CE-7.5 cryogenic engine with a more powerful indigenous design.
- It has successfully powered eight consecutive LVM3 missions, including Chandrayaan-2 and Chandrayaan-3.
- It is the human-rated cryogenic engine planned for Gaganyaan missions.
About LVM3
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Form | Launch Vehicle Mark-3 |
| Type | Heavy-lift launch vehicle |
| Developed By | ISRO |
| Uses | Satellite launches, Chandrayaan missions, Gaganyaan mission |
| Upper Stage Engine | CE20 Cryogenic Engine |
