What significant logistical drawback accompanies the high performance of cryogenic propellants like $ ext{LH}_2$ and $ ext{LOX}$?

Answer

Both components must be kept extremely cold, leading to boil-off over time.

Cryogenic fuels require heavy insulation to maintain temperatures like $-253^ ext{o} ext{C}$ for hydrogen. This cold storage leads to boil-off, where the fuel naturally vaporizes and is lost during long-duration missions.

What significant logistical drawback accompanies the high performance of cryogenic propellants like $	ext{LH}_2$ and $	ext{LOX}$?

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