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RAS question

ISRO's CE20 cryogenic engine was tested at what thrust level for 165 seconds in March 2026?

Correct answer: (B) 22 tonnes.

ISRO's CE20 cryogenic engine was tested for 165 seconds at the 22-tonne thrust level.

  1. (A)

    25 tonnes

  2. (B)

    22 tonnes

  3. (C)

    18 tonnes

  4. (D)

    15 tonnes

Explanation

ISRO reported that the CE20 cryogenic engine's sea-level test qualified engine testing for a full 165 seconds at 22-tonne thrust using the Nozzle Protection System. This matters because CE20 powers the upper cryogenic stage of the LVM3 launch vehicle. ISRO linked the uprated 22-tonne operation to future LVM3 missions using the C32 stage, where higher thrust is meant to support enhanced payload capability. CE20 is also important for Gaganyaan and Chandrayaan-4. So the answer is not just a number from a test report; it marks the thrust level at which ISRO validated CE20 operation for the LVM3's planned uprated cryogenic stage.

Why the other options are wrong

  • (A) 25 tonnes is not supported by ISRO's report, which states that the 165-second qualification test was conducted at 22-tonne thrust.
  • (C) 18 tonnes is below the reported test level; ISRO specifically described the sea-level test as a 22-tonne thrust qualification.
  • (D) 15 tonnes does not match the ISRO test outcome, as the CE20 engine was qualified for the 165-second sea-level test at 22 tonnes.

Concept

This tests current developments in India's space technology programme, especially launch-vehicle propulsion. RAS repeatedly asks such items because ISRO mission capability, indigenous engine testing and flagship missions such as Gaganyaan and Chandrayaan-4 are high-value science and technology themes.

Source

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