Engines are ready! ISRO successfully tests Gaganyaan's cryogenic mechanism for launching Indians in space
Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
Gaganyaan Mission
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a significant milestone in the Gaganyaan mission by successfully testing the cryogenic engine intended to propel Indian astronauts to space.
Completion of CE20 Cryogenic Engine Test
ISRO completed the human rating of its CE20 cryogenic engine, designated to power the cryogenic stage of the Launch Vehicle Mark II (LVM3) for the Gaganyaan mission, marking a crucial step forward in India's space exploration endeavours.
Conducting Rigorous Ground Qualification Tests
Engineers at the High Altitude Test Facility, ISRO Propulsion Complex, Mahendragiri, conducted a series of vacuum ignition tests to simulate flight conditions, including life demonstration tests, endurance tests, and performance assessments, ensuring the engine's reliability under various operational scenarios.
Completion of Ground Qualification Tests
With the successful completion of the latest test, ISRO concluded the ground qualification tests for the CE20 engine, meeting the rigorous human rating standards required for the Gaganyaan program.
Stringent Testing Regimen
ISRO highlighted that four engines underwent a total of 39 hot firing tests, accumulating a cumulative duration of 8810 seconds under different operating conditions, surpassing the minimum human rating qualification standard requirement of 6350 seconds.
Crucial Test Launch of Test Vehicle (TV-D1)
ISRO's test launch of the Test Vehicle (TV-D1) in 2023 was a pivotal step towards the Gaganyaan mission's execution, aiming to demonstrate India's capability for human spaceflight by assessing the mid-flight crew escape system.
Assessment of TV-D1 Vehicle
The TV-D1 vehicle, utilizing a modified VIKAS engine and equipped with a Crew Module and Crew Escape System, underwent rigorous testing to evaluate its performance, standing at 34.9 meters tall with a lift-off weight of 44 tonnes.
Advancing India's Space Exploration Ambitions
ISRO's successful engine test and test launch signify India's commitment to advancing its space exploration ambitions, paving the way for future manned missions and enhancing the nation's presence in the global space arena.