
- Powerful Engine: LVM-3 boasts a powerful cryogenic stage engine that enables it to propel heavy payloads into Low Earth Orbits of 600 km altitude. With its high-thrust cryogenic upper stage (C25) and solid boosters (S200), LVM-3 can effectively push heavy satellites and exploration modules to their desired orbits.
- Successful Mission Launches: LVM-3 has a successful track record, having carried out six mission launches, including the prominent Chandrayaan-2 mission. These accomplishments highlight the reliability and efficiency of LVM-3 as a launch vehicle, demonstrating its capability to deliver payloads to their intended destinations.
- Indigenous Technology: LVM-3 showcases India’s technological prowess and self-reliance in the space sector. It features fully indigenous components, including the high-thrust cryogenic engine (CE20) and the solid boosters (S200). This emphasis on indigenous technology signifies India’s commitment to developing its capabilities in space exploration and establishing a self-sustaining space program.
Summary: Chandrayaan-3, India's lunar exploration mission today launched successfully with the help of the mighty Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM-3). Formerly known as the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk-3, LVM-3 is a powerful launch vehicle capable of efficiently placing heavy payloads into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbits. With a track record of successful missions and a three-stage configuration featuring strap-on motors, a liquid core stage, and a cryogenic upper stage, LVM-3 showcases India's prowess in space exploration. As Chandrayaan-3 sets its sights on the moon, LVM-3 stands as a testament to India's commitment to advancing lunar exploration and unlocking the mysteries of our celestial neighbor.
Chennai, 14 JULY (City Times): As India gears up for its much-anticipated Chandrayaan-3 mission, one crucial element stands at the forefront of this lunar exploration endeavor – the Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM-3). Formerly known as the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) Mk-3, LVM-3 is a towering masterpiece of engineering that will propel India’s aspirations to further explore the moon. With its exceptional capabilities and impressive design, LVM-3 is poised to make a significant impact in the realm of space exploration.
Understanding LVM-3:
The Backbone of Chandrayaan-3 LVM-3, standing tall at a height of 43.5 meters and weighing a staggering 640 tonnes, is specifically designed to deliver a wide range of payloads into orbit. It possesses the remarkable ability to cost-effectively place 4-tonne GSAT series class satellites in Geosynchronous Transfer Orbits. Equipped with a powerful cryogenic stage engine, LVM-3 can effortlessly propel heavy payloads into Low Earth Orbits at an altitude of 600 km, showcasing its remarkable strength and efficiency.
A Stellar Track Record:
LVM-3’s Successful Missions With a history of successful mission launches, LVM-3 has already demonstrated its reliability and prowess. Notably, it played a pivotal role in the launch of Chandrayaan-2, one of India’s most ambitious space missions. The vehicle’s versatility and dependability have solidified its position as a key player in India’s space exploration efforts, earning it a well-deserved reputation for excellence.
The Anatomy of LVM-3:
A Three-Stage Configuration LVM-3 operates on a three-stage configuration, comprising two strap-on motors (S200), one liquid core stage (L110), and a high-thrust cryogenic upper stage (C25). The S200 boosters, fueled by 204 tonnes of solid propellant, rank among the largest solid boosters in the world. Furthermore, the C25 stage features a fully indigenous high-thrust cryogenic engine (CE20). These combined elements ensure the vehicle’s optimal performance during liftoff.
The Flight Sequence:
A Technological Marvel During the launch of LVM-3, a meticulously planned flight sequence comes into play. The core stage (L110) is ignited at around 113 seconds, while both S200 boosters ignite simultaneously. The S200 motors burn for approximately 134 seconds before separation occurs at 137 seconds. The payload fairing is separated at an altitude of 115 km, and at approximately 217 seconds, the L110 burnout and separation, as well as the C25 ignition, take place. Finally, at around 974 seconds, the spacecraft is injected into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) of 180×36000 km, marking a significant milestone in the mission’s trajectory.
The Promise of Chandrayaan-3’s LVM-3 As Chandrayaan-3 sets its sights on the moon, the formidable LVM-3 launch vehicle serves as the backbone of this groundbreaking mission. With its remarkable capabilities, LVM-3 exemplifies the ingenuity and dedication of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) in pushing the boundaries of space exploration. As the spacecraft embarks on its lunar voyage, the nation eagerly awaits the discoveries and achievements that lie ahead, cementing India’s position as a prominent player in the realm of lunar exploration.