The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully conducted a hot test of the power head of its next-generation semi-cryogenic rocket engine at 88 per cent of its target thrust, marking a significant milestone in the development of the new propulsion system.
The test was carried out on June 24 at the ISRO Propulsion Complex in Tamil Nadu. According to ISRO, the engine's power head operated stably at a thrust level of 175 tonnes during the trial.
The latest test follows earlier successful demonstrations at 47 per cent and 60 per cent thrust. ISRO said the result provides "sufficient confidence" to proceed with a full-thrust demonstration at 200 tonnes.
The semi-cryogenic propulsion stage is being developed to replace the existing L110 core stage on India's LVM3 launch vehicle.
The new stage will be powered by the 2,000-kilonewton SE2000 engine, which uses liquid oxygen and kerosene as propellants. ISRO said the upgrade is expected to increase the launch vehicle's payload capacity while improving its operational efficiency.