UPSC Prelims 2008 Q33: Science & Technology – Space Technology & Astronomy
ISRO successfully conducted a rocket test using cryogenic engines in the year 2007. Where is
the test - stand used for the purpose, located?
- (a) Balasore
- (b) Thiruvananthapuram
- (c) Mahendragiri
- (d) Karwar
Answer: (c) Mahendragiri
Explanation
Location of ISRO's cryogenic engine test stand
This critical rocket-testing facility, used for India's cryogenic engine development, is located at a specific ISRO centre.
| Option | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| (a) Balasore | Incorrect | Not the location of this cryogenic test stand |
| (b) Thiruvananthapuram | Incorrect | Home to VSSC, but not the specific cryogenic test-stand location here |
| (c) Mahendragiri | Correct | ISRO's Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre at Mahendragiri houses the cryogenic engine test stand used for this 2007 test |
| (d) Karwar | Incorrect | Not the location of this test stand |
Cryogenic engine test facts:
| Point | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu |
| Facility | Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) |
Answer: (c) Mahendragiri.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Balasore is not the location of this test stand.
- (b) Incorrect. Thiruvananthapuram hosts VSSC, but not this specific cryogenic test stand.
- (c) CORRECT. Mahendragiri houses ISRO's cryogenic engine test stand.
- (d) Incorrect. Karwar is not the location of this test stand.
Key point
ISRO's cryogenic engine test stand, used for the 2007 test, is located at Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu (Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre).
Remember
ISRO's cryogenic rocket engine test stand is located at Mahendragiri.
Common mistakes
- Confusing Mahendragiri's specific cryogenic-testing role with other ISRO centres like Thiruvananthapuram (VSSC) or Sriharikota (launch site).
- Not knowing the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre's specific function.
- Mixing up different ISRO facility locations and their specialized purposes.
Exam tip
Mahendragiri = ISRO's cryogenic engine test stand (Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre). Distinct from VSSC (Thiruvananthapuram) or SHAR (Sriharikota).
Sources
- Indian Space Research Organisation — Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre, Mahendragiri: cryogenic engine test facility
- Department of Space, Government of India — Annual Report 2007–08 (cryogenic upper stage development)