The Cryogenics

India successfully launched its fourth GSLV (GSLV-F04) and fifth in total, last Sunday. Along with it, it deployed the next generation INSAT-4CR multi-role satellite, needed desperately for the communication systems, since the last GSLV launch was unsuccessful. The previous one crashed because one of the four strap on boosters on the rocket had malfunctioned seconds after it took off .

Even this launch was dramatic. The countdown halted 15 seconds to zero, since the onboard computer did not get the "clear" signal from the cryogenic stage. Manual intervention was required to rectify the problem. The GSLV-F04, is a three stage 49 m high rocket. The last stage is the cryogenic stage and this is what bothers me to write this blog.

Even for this launch we used the Russian supplied cryogenic engine. As per the official standing, India has successfully "hot tested" the "Cryogenic Upper Stage" on October 2006. It is scheduled for a live performance with the GSLV-D3 this year. But will we make it? I hope so.

The speed with which ISRO built and launched the F04, (in about 12-13 months time), indicates two things, that there is a strong political will to get along with the space programme (since nothing moves here, without the politicians' will) and there is definitely a repeatable and manged process in place, in our design, manufacture and implementation of rocket launches. Maybe ISRO should apply for a CMMI certification!

Another reason for the government's curiosity with building rockets is its missile defense programme. A healthy space programme of a nation, is always accompanied by a strong and powerful missile defense system . The critics of space and missile programme cried like in hell, when the GSLV and Agni III failed last year around July. I for one was absolutely certain, that the causes for the failures were isolated in both cases and more to with manufacturing defects. I was therefore not surprised, when the Agni III was launched successfully in April this year and now the GSLV.