Advancing Cryogenic Engine Autonomy for Future Space Missions

Context:
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved a major technological milestone by successfully testing the bootstrap mode start of the CE20 cryogenic engine, marking a significant step towards greater mission flexibility and self-reliance in space propulsion systems. This breakthrough strengthens the capabilities of LVM3, India’s heavy-lift launch vehicle, crucial for Gaganyaan and future multi-orbit missions.

Key Highlights:

Successful Engine Test

• ISRO conducted a successful bootstrap mode start test of the CE20 cryogenic engine on November 7.

• The test was carried out for 10 seconds under simulated vacuum conditions.

• Testing took place at the High-Altitude Test (HAT) Facility, Mahendragiri.

About CE20 Cryogenic Engine

• The CE20 engine powers the upper stage (C25) of the Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3).

• It is already flight-qualified for:

  • 19–22 tonnes thrust

  • Single-start operation

• The engine is a critical component of India’s human spaceflight programme (Gaganyaan).

What is Bootstrap Mode Start

• Bootstrap mode start allows the engine to:

  • Ignite and reach steady-state operation without external start-up assistance

• Unlike earlier systems:

  • Current ignition uses tank head pressure

  • Turbo pumps are started using stored gas bottles

• Bootstrap mode eliminates the need for additional start-up gas systems.

Strategic Importance

• Enables multiple in-flight restarts of the CE20 engine.

• Supports multi-orbit and complex missions, such as:

  • Space station support missions

  • Advanced satellite deployments

• Reduces payload penalties and system complexity, improving mission efficiency.

Relevant Prelims Points:

• Issue: Need for greater flexibility and restart capability in cryogenic engines.

• Organisation Involved:

  • ISRO

• Facilities Used:

  • High-Altitude Test (HAT) Facility, Mahendragiri

• Key Technologies:

  • Cryogenic propulsion

  • Turbo pumps

  • Bootstrap mode ignition

• Benefits:

  • Enhanced mission flexibility

  • Reduced dependence on auxiliary systems

  • Increased reliability

• Impact:

  • Strengthens India’s heavy-lift launch capability

  • Supports long-duration and human space missions

Relevant Mains Points:

• Key Concepts Explained:

  • Cryogenic Engine: Uses super-cooled liquid fuels like liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen

  • Bootstrap Mode Start: Self-sustaining engine ignition without external aids

  • Turbo Pumps: High-speed pumps supplying fuel and oxidiser at high pressure

• Science & Technology Significance:

  • Improves propulsion autonomy

  • Reduces system mass and complexity

• Strategic and Programmatic Linkages:

  • Gaganyaan Mission

  • India’s long-term deep space ambitions

• Way Forward:

  • Validate multiple restart capability in flight conditions

  • Integrate bootstrap start in operational LVM3 missions

  • Extend technology to future heavy-lift and reusable launch systems

UPSC Relevance (GS-wise):

• GS 3 (Science & Technology): Cryogenic engines, space propulsion

• GS 3 (Prelims): ISRO, LVM3, CE20 engine, bootstrap mode