India to launch rocket with home cryo engine between Jan 15-23

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) plans to launch Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) with indigenous cryogenic stage and engine for the first time between January 15 and 23

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) plans to launch Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) with indigenous cryogenic stage and engine for the first time between January 15 and 23, an ISRO official said on Friday. Preparations are underway for the launch from the Sriharikota spaceport, the official said.

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The GSLV would carry on board a GSAT-4 experimental communication satellite. With the launch, India would join a select club of nations which have mastered the complex cryogenic technology. The mission would make New Delhi totally self-reliant in all aspects of launch vehicle technology.

ISRO's previous GSLV flights carried Russian cryogenic stages procured earlier. ISRO began working on indigenous cryogenic technology and stage in 1996 following the technology denial regime in the early 1990s.

Technological challenges faced during the development of indigenous cryogenic engine and stage include those relating to new materials, composite thermal insulation, new fabrication techniques, handling of cryogenic fluids at cryogenic temperatures, realisation of facilities for assembly, integration and testing and associated safety systems, ISRO officials said.