The 11D-57 engine was developed as part of an N-1 performance upgrade (N-1M). Russia's original N-1 moon vehicle relied entirely on LOX / kerosene propulsion systems. As a result, a larger vehicle and more stages were required to deliver less total payload to the vicinity of the moon than the US Saturn V. To improve the "robustness" of the N-1 vehicle, the 11D-57 LOX / hydrogen engine was developed as a replacement for the NK-31 / 39 LOX / kerosene engine.
For the N-1M, the third and fourth stages would be converted from LOX / kerosene to LOX / hydrogen - greatly improving payload capability. Unfortunately, the N-1 program was cancelled while the 11D-57 was in qualification. As a result, only two or three engines remain today (in museums). However, GenCorp Aerojet is marketing a newer version of the 11D-57, redesignated the AJ26-57A.
http://www.spaceandtech.com/spacedata/engines/11d57_sum.shtml
Goto Propulsion Guide Home Page
Goto Space Projects and Info Home Page
Copyright © 2000-2008 Vic Stathopoulos. All rights reserved.
Updated: Saturday 5th, July, 2008