Daily Current Affairs : 23-February-2024

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has reached an essential milestone in its Gaganyaan venture. This fulfillment entails the successful human rating of the CE20 cryogenic engine. This engine is important because it powers the cryogenic stage of the human-rated LVM3 launch vehicle, which will eventually transport astronauts into space.

What is Human-Rating?

Human-rating is a procedure that guarantees a machine can safely transport people. It entails rigorous testing and assessment to verify that the technology will work effectively under various conditions. This is crucial for missions that involve human life.

Ground Qualification Tests

Before the CE20 engine was human-rated, it underwent a series of thorough ground qualification tests. These assessments included:

  • Vacuum Ignition Tests: These tests simulate the conditions of space to make sure that the engine operates efficiently when it is launched.
  • Performance Assessments: The engine’s capacity to perform under different conditions was analyzed to ensure reliability.

These tests are crucial for confirming that the engine can cope with the extreme conditions of a space mission.

Objectives of the Gaganyaan Mission

The primary purpose of the Gaganyaan project is to launch a crew of three astronauts into a 400 km orbit around Earth. The mission aims to achieve the following:

  • Three-Day Mission: The crew will stay in space for three days, allowing for valuable scientific research and experimentation.
  • Safe Return: One of the most critical aspects is ensuring the astronauts can safely return to Earth after their mission.

CE20 Cryogenic Engine

The CE20 engine is a significant technological advancement for India. Developed by the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), a branch of ISRO, it is the first Indian cryogenic engine to use a gas-generator cycle.

Key Features of the CE20 Engine
  • Propellant: It uses a combination of Liquid Oxygen (LOX) and Liquid Hydrogen (LH2) as propellants.
  • Gas-Generator Cycle: This cycle enhances the engine’s efficiency and performance.
ISRO’s Milestone: Human Rating of the CE20 Engine for Gaganyaan
Courtesy: DICS

Important Points:

ISRO’s Milestone: Successful human rating of the CE20 cryogenic engine for the Gaganyaan mission.Importance of Human-Rating: Ensures safe transport of humans in space missions.Ground Qualification Tests:

  • Vacuum Ignition Tests: Simulate space conditions for engine performance.
  • Performance Assessments: Evaluate engine reliability under various conditions.

Gaganyaan Mission Objectives:

  • Launch a crew of three astronauts into a 400 km orbit.
  • Conduct a three-day mission for scientific research.
  • Ensure safe return of astronauts to Earth.

CE20 Engine: Developed by the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC).

  • First Indian cryogenic engine to use a gas-generator cycle.

Key Features of the CE20 Engine:

  • Propellants: Liquid Oxygen (LOX) and Liquid Hydrogen (LH2).
  • Enhanced efficiency and performance through the gas-generator cycle.

Why In News

ISRO has achieved a significant milestone in its Gaganyaan mission by completing the human rating of its CE20 cryogenic engine, which powers the cryogenic stage of the human-rated LVM3 launch vehicle, paving the way for India’s first crewed spaceflight and showcasing the nation’s growing capabilities in space technology.

MCQs about Human Rating of the CE20 Engine for Gaganyaan

  1. What is the primary goal of the Gaganyaan mission?
    A. To launch a satellite into orbit
    B. To conduct scientific research on Earth
    C. To send a crew of three astronauts into a 400 km orbit
    D. To develop new rocket technology
    Correct Answer: C. To send a crew of three astronauts into a 400 km orbit
    Explanation: The primary goal of the Gaganyaan mission is to launch a crew of three astronauts into a 400 km orbit around Earth for a three-day mission.
  2. What does the term “human-rating” refer to in the context of the Gaganyaan mission?
    A. The process of evaluating astronauts’ health
    B. A certification process ensuring safe transport of humans
    C. The assessment of rocket engine fuel efficiency
    D. The training program for astronauts
    Correct Answer: B. A certification process ensuring safe transport of humans
    Explanation: Human-rating refers to a certification process that ensures a system, such as a rocket engine, can safely transport humans during missions.
  3. What type of propellants does the CE20 cryogenic engine use?
    A. Solid fuel
    B. Liquid Oxygen (LOX) and Liquid Hydrogen (LH2)
    C. Kerosene and Oxygen
    D. Gasoline and Nitrogen
    Correct Answer: B. Liquid Oxygen (LOX) and Liquid Hydrogen (LH2)
    Explanation: The CE20 cryogenic engine uses a combination of Liquid Oxygen (LOX) and Liquid Hydrogen (LH2) as propellants, which are essential for its operation in space.
  4. Which organization developed the CE20 cryogenic engine?
    A. NASA
    B. ESA (European Space Agency)
    C. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
    D. Roscosmos
    Correct Answer: C. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
    Explanation: The CE20 cryogenic engine was developed by the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), which is a branch of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

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