Correct Answer :   ISRO

ISRO, through the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) with support from other launch vehicle centers, is advancing the development of a semi-cryogenic propulsion system. This system aims to enhance the payload capacity of Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3) and future launch vehicles by utilizing a 2,000 kN thrust semi-cryogenic engine powered by a combination of liquid oxygen (LOX) and kerosene.

Major Accomplishment: Successful Ignition of Semi-Cryo Pre-Burner :

A significant milestone in ISRO’s semi-cryogenic engine development is the successful ignition of the semi-cryo pre-burner. This achievement, crucial for initiating the semi-cryogenic engine, was realized through testing conducted at the Isro Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri.

Ignition Process and Fuel Ampule :

The ignition process of the semi-cryogenic engine involves the use of a start fuel ampule, utilizing a combination of Triethyle Alumnide and Triethyle Boron. Developed by the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), this unique fuel combination was employed for the first time in an ISRO engine.

Next Steps: Engine Development and Testing :

Following the successful pre-burner ignition, ISRO will proceed with the development and testing of the engine powerhead test article and fully integrated engine. Additionally, efforts are underway for the development of a semi-cryo stage with 120 tons of propellant loading, marking further progress in the project.

Correct Answer :   China

Pakistan’s Institute of Space Technology (IST) said on April 30 that the lunar mission iCube-Q will be launched on 3 May 2024 aboard China’s Chang’e 6 lunar probe, according to a report by Dawn.

The satellite was developed by IST in partnership with China’s Shanghai University SJTU and Suparco, which is the national space agency of Pakistan. It carries two optical cameras and will capture images of the Moon’s surface.

The Chinese embassy in Pakistan also confirmed the development and said the Chang’e 6 lunar probe will carry payloads from France, European Space Agency and Pakistan on a round trip.

“Pakistan Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission, #SUPARCO’s logo is seen on China’s most powerful rocket #LongMarch5! Together with China’s #ChangE6 lunar probe and payloads from France and #ESA, Pakistan’s CubeSat is ready to go to the moon in just a few days!” the embassy said in a post on X.

Pakistan Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission, #SUPARCO’s logo is seen on China’s most powerful rocket #LongMarch5! Together with China’s #ChangE6 lunar probe and payloads from France and #ESA, Pakistan’s CubeSat is ready to go to the moon in just a few days! pic.twitter.com/tlOebD5wVf

— Chinese Emb Pakistan (@CathayPak) April 29, 2024

According to the report, Chang’e 6 is the sixth lunar exploration mission of China. The mission, which will be launched from Hainan province in China, will collect soil and rock samples from the darker side of the Moon, making it the first to attempt such an endeavor, according to media reports..

Source : Money Control

Correct Answer :   Russia

Russia successfully tested its Angara-A5 space rocket for the first time on April 11, 2024. The test launch was conducted from the Vostochny Cosmodrome in the Far East of Russia. In fact, rocket test launches on April 9 and 10 were cancelled due to a malfunction in the pressurization system and a problem with the engine launch-control system.

Previous Launch Attempts and Cancellations

* Two previous launch attempts on April 9 and 10 were canceled due to technical issues.
* The April 9 launch was canceled due to a malfunction in the pressurization system, while the April 10 launch was canceled because of a problem with the engine launch-control system.

Third Test Launch a Success :

* The April 11 launch was Russia’s third test of the Angara-A5 rocket, and it was successful.
* The launch coincided with Cosmonaut Day, which commemorates Yuri Gagarin’s historic spaceflight 63 years ago.

Rocket Performance and Specifications :

* The Angara-A5 rocket reached an altitude of more than 25,000 kilometers (15,500 miles) per hour within minutes of launch.
* The Angara-A5 is a three-stage rocket that stands 54.5 meters (178.81 feet) tall and weighs about 773 tons, with a payload capacity of 24.5 tons.

The Angara Project

* Russia launched the Angara project in 1991, shortly after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, to develop a domestically produced launch vehicle.
* The first Angara-A5 test flight took place in 2014, and a second test was conducted in 2020 from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome in northern Russia.
* A partial test of the Angara project in 2021 was unsuccessful.

Significance of the Angara Rocket

* The Angara-A5 is designed to replace Russia’s Proton launcher and maintain Russia’s access to space after the expiration of the lease on the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan in 2050.
* President Vladimir Putin has touted the Angara’s role in national security, although the project has faced significant delays and technical setbacks.
* Russia hopes to use the Angara’s cargo capabilities to deliver modules to a rival space station that it plans to build in the coming years.