By Soniya:
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a significant milestone on 24 June 2026 by successfully conducting a hot test of its semi-cryogenic engine power head at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. During the test, the engine generated 175 tonnes of thrust, achieving 88% of its target thrust of 200 tonnes.
The test was the eighth in the ongoing Power Head Test Article (PHTA) series and forms a crucial part of the development of the SC120 semi-cryogenic propulsion stage. The stage is powered by the SE2000 engine, which is designed to produce 2,000 kilonewtons of thrust and will eventually replace the existing L110 core stage of the LVM3 launch vehicle.
The semi-cryogenic engine uses liquid oxygen (LOX) as the oxidizer and kerosene as fuel, a combination known for higher efficiency and cost-effectiveness in launch vehicle propulsion systems. The technology is expected to enhance the payload capacity and performance of India’s heavy-lift launch vehicles.
ISRO has been actively advancing its propulsion technologies in 2026, including successful tests of the CE20 cryogenic engine and a redesigned PS4 engine manufactured using additive manufacturing techniques. The full-thrust demonstration of the semi-cryogenic engine at 200 tonnes is planned before its integration into the upgraded LVM3, which is expected to become operational around 2027.
