Propelling us to the future: Vikas cryogenic engine

 The future is already here...

The VIKAS cryogenic engine is a family of engines designed in the 1970s by the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre. Named after Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the engine revolutionized Indian space missions, so much so that it has completed a 25-second qualification test for the Gaganyaan mission. Despite being efficient and close to the expected parameters, the VIKAS engine is infamous for the ISRO spy case of 1994.

Vikas engine is a liquid-fueled engine and thus is more fuel efficient. It can be switched on and off and can lift heavier payloads. It does not vibrate as much and can burn for extended periods of time. Vikas engines can also be reused after being cleaned and reassembled. Thus, this is a way better technology than solid fuels, which are now used only for the initial lift-off. With only two missions failing, this technology developed by Nambi Narayanan and his team had set a mark in history. 

Model of Vikas Engines

The engine's design is such that of a Viking engine's chemical pressurization system. Initially, the design used specific French components, which were then replaced by domestic counterparts. It is used in Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) for space launches. It is used to power the second stage of PSLV and Mark I and II and also the GSLV Mark III. The High thrust Vikas engine is now undergoing Gaganyaan Qualification tests.

In 1973, ISRO launched an experimental rocket using a 600kg fuel engine. This was a success and got us a deal with the French to develop a 60-ton rocket with a fuel engine in partnership. During the 80s, the ISRO decided to use the 60-ton French Vikas engine in the second stage of PSLV. All PSLVs fitted with this technology were a success save for two.

However, this cryogenic technology was forced to shut down due to political reasons. In 1994, a Maldivian woman was arrested as a suspect for selling national security information to Pakistan. Three ISRO scientists were also implicated, including Nambi Narayanan. He was the director of cryogenic technology at ISRO. He was suspected of selling information and drawings of the Vikas engine technology and the PSLV to Pakistan. The proceedings were then dropped due to lack of evidence long after being prosecuted.

During his time in police custody, Mr. Narayanan was asked to name a Muslim friend in order to connect him to Pakistan. Guess what he said... That's right; he said Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam's name. Talk about being iconic. The spy case thus became a black mark on the police force and the justice system of our nation.

- Namitha ( MS22118)