1. Correct Answer: Option C: Mahendragiri 2. Explain the logic: ● Option A: Balasore: This location is known for its missile testing range, specifically the Integrated Test Range (ITR) for defense purposes, not for ISRO's cryogenic engine tests.
● Option B: Thiruvananthapuram: While Thiruvananthapuram is home to the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), which is a major space research center of ISRO, the specific test-stand for cryogenic engines is not located here.
● Option C: Mahendragiri: The ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) at Mahendragiri is where ISRO conducts tests for its cryogenic engines. This facility is specifically equipped for testing and assembling propulsion systems.
● Option D: Karwar: This location is primarily known for its naval base and does not have facilities related to ISRO's cryogenic engine testing.
It is a rocket engine that uses a cryogenic fuel
and oxidizer; i.e. both its fuel and oxidizer are gases which are liquefied and
stored at very low temperatures.
Fuel: Liquid
hydrogen (LH2) and the liquid oxygen (LOX).
Oxygen
liquifies at -183 deg C and Hydrogen at -253 deg C.
Cryogenic propellants are used for high performance
upper stages and boosters.
India's
cryogenic engines
India is
among six nations тАФ apart from
the US, Russia, France, Japan and China тАФ to possess cryogenic engine
technology.
India's largest cryogenic engine is
C25. The C25 stage is the
most powerful upper stage developed by ISRO. It uses LOX and LH2
propellant combination.
The CE-20 is a cryogenic
rocket engine developed by the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre, a
subsidiary of ISRO. It has been developed to power the upper stage of the
GSLV Mk III. It is the first Indian cryogenic engine to feature a
gas-generator cycle. The high thrust cryogenic engine is one of the most
powerful upper stage cryogenic engines in the world.
Semi Cryogenic Engine
Unlike
a Cryogenic engine, a Semi Cryogenic engine uses Refined kerosene
instead of liquid hydrogen. The liquid oxygen is used as an
Oxidizer.
A semi cryogenic engine
is more powerful, environment friendly and cost effective.
Kerosene
combined with liquid oxygen provide a higher thrust to the rocket.
Refined
kerosene is lighter than liquid fuel and can be stored in a normal
temperature.
Refined
kerosene occupies less space, making it possible to carry more
propellant in a Semi Cryogenic engines fuel compartment.