How Did Jitendra Singh Praise ISRO for Their Key CE20 Cryogenic Engine Test?
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Synopsis
On November 20, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh praised ISRO for successfully completing a pivotal restart test on the CE20 cryogenic engine, essential for the Gaganyaan missions. This achievement marks a significant milestone in India's space exploration efforts, emphasizing the potential for greater mission flexibility in future launches.
Key Takeaways
- ISRO successfully completed a key test on the CE20 cryogenic engine for Gaganyaan missions.
- This engine is crucial for future launches of the LVM-3 rocket.
- The boot-strap mode test allows the engine to ignite without external systems.
- Dr. Jitendra Singh recognized this achievement as a major leap in space propulsion.
- ISRO aims to enhance mission flexibility with this technology.
New Delhi, Nov 20 (NationPress) Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, expressed his admiration for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) following their successful completion of a crucial restart test on the CE20 cryogenic engine, which is validated for the Gaganyaan missions.
On Wednesday, ISRO proudly announced that it had successfully executed a boot-strap mode start of the CE20 cryogenic engine in vacuum conditions for the very first time. This advancement could significantly enhance the operational flexibility of its largest rocket, the LVM-3, in upcoming missions.
In a post on the social media platform X, Singh referred to this achievement as a “major leap for India’s space propulsion.”
“ISRO has reached a remarkable milestone. The CE20 cryogenic engine has successfully ignited in bootstrap mode, functioning without any auxiliary start-gas system under vacuum test conditions,” he further remarked.
The test took place on November 7 and lasted for a duration of 10 seconds at ISRO's High-Altitude Test facility.
Currently, the CE20 cryogenic engine, which powers the upper stage of the LVM3 rocket, is already certified for operation at thrust levels between 19 to 22 tonnes with a single ignition.
ISRO clarified that achieving a boot-strap mode start—where the engine reaches steady operation without external start-up support—is vital for ensuring flexibility in multi-orbit missions.
During the critical restart test, a multi-element igniter was used in both the thrust chamber and gas generator to enable the bootstrap starting process.
“After igniting the thrust chamber, the gas generator was activated under tank head conditions, and the turbopumps were initiated without the startup system. The successful demonstration of bootstrap mode build-up and steady-state engine operation followed,” ISRO stated.
“With this accomplishment, ISRO has set a precedent by successfully demonstrating bootstrap mode initiation of a gas-generator cycle cryogenic engine without any auxiliary startup system, potentially for the first time globally. This is a crucial step toward improving the restart capability and mission adaptability of future LVM3 launches,” the agency added.
Point of View
This achievement by ISRO not only underscores India's growing capabilities in space technology but also enhances national pride. The successful testing of the CE20 cryogenic engine signifies a pivotal moment in India's pursuit of self-reliance in space exploration and showcases the nation's technological advancements.
NationPress
20/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CE20 cryogenic engine?
The CE20 cryogenic engine is a propulsion system developed by ISRO that powers the upper stage of the LVM3 rocket, qualifying it for significant missions like Gaganyaan.
What was the significance of the boot-strap mode test?
The boot-strap mode test demonstrated the engine's ability to ignite and reach steady operation without external assistance, crucial for enhancing operational flexibility during missions.
When did ISRO conduct the key restart test?
The key restart test was conducted on November 7, lasting for 10 seconds at ISRO's High-Altitude Test facility.
What are the thrust levels for the CE20 cryogenic engine?
The CE20 cryogenic engine is qualified to operate at thrust levels ranging from 19 to 22 tonnes with a single start.
Why is this achievement important for future missions?
This achievement is vital as it enhances the restart capability and mission flexibility for future LVM3 flights, making complex multi-orbit missions more feasible.
