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NRIPage | Articles | ISRO Successfully Tests 200T Semi-Cryogenic Engine, Boosting India's Future Space Missions | Get General Articles. Stay Informed on a World of Topics - NRI Page
India's growing space capabilities took a decisive leap forward with the successful hot test of the Lox Kerosene 200T thrust semi-cryogenic engine by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Conducted at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, the test marks a pivotal advancement in India’s space propulsion technology and highlights ISRO's steady progress in developing next-generation launch systems.
The newly tested engine is designed to operate using a powerful combination of Liquid Oxygen (LOX) and kerosene, producing a thrust of 2000 kN. This semi-cryogenic engine is a key component of India’s vision to increase the payload capacity of its LVM3 (Launch Vehicle Mark-3) rocket. The successful trial not only demonstrates the effectiveness of ISRO’s Power Head Test Article (PHTA) but also establishes a firm foundation for full integration and operational deployment of the SE2000 engine in future missions.
The liquid propulsion upgrade is being spearheaded by ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), which is also developing the associated SC120 semi-cryogenic stage. The SC120 is set to replace the current L110 core stage of the LVM3 rocket. With this enhancement, ISRO is aiming to boost payload delivery into geostationary transfer orbit (GTO) from 4 tonnes to 5 tonnes — a critical advantage for heavier satellite missions and potential future crewed missions.
Advanced Technology in Semi-Cryogenic Propulsion and Future Roadmap
The semi-cryogenic SE2000 engine is a standout not just for its power but also for its adoption of a highly efficient oxidizer-rich staged combustion cycle — a technology mastered by only a few nations globally. This advanced combustion cycle allows the engine to achieve a high chamber pressure of 180 bar and a specific impulse of 335 seconds, making it a robust and reliable component for deep-space and heavy-lift applications. Key components of the SE2000 engine include a sophisticated thrust chamber, pre-burner, turbo pump system, control valves, and a precision startup mechanism. The propellant combination of LOX and kerosene not only ensures better performance but is also environmentally safer, being non-toxic and non-hazardous compared to traditional hypergolic fuels.
The 2.5-second hot test conducted at Mahendragiri validated the proper ignition and operation of all critical systems including the pre-burner, turbo pumps, and control components. This success follows a series of carefully executed evaluations, including earlier trials using the Pre-Burner Ignition Test Article (PITA), which helped refine the ignition sequence and ensure stable engine startup. The test took place at the newly inaugurated Semicryogenic Integrated Engine Test Facility (SIET) at the IPRC. Opened in February 2024 and dedicated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Thiruvananthapuram, the SIET facility is a state-of-the-art complex equipped to handle engine tests with thrust levels up to 2600 kN. With advanced control systems and precision data acquisition tools, it plays a crucial role in ISRO's push toward next-generation propulsion systems.
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh hailed the achievement as a critical milestone in India's space journey. He emphasized the engine's potential to significantly bolster ISRO's capabilities in launching heavier payloads and expanding India’s presence in space exploration. Looking ahead, ISRO plans to carry out a series of further tests on the PHTA before integrating the full SE2000 engine into flight-ready configurations. This phased approach ensures thorough validation of all subsystems and builds confidence in the engine's readiness for operational deployment. As India eyes ambitious missions — including interplanetary exploration, human spaceflight, and commercial satellite launches — the development of semi-cryogenic engines like SE2000 is a crucial step. It underscores ISRO's ability to keep pace with global advancements in rocket technology while crafting indigenous solutions tailored to the country’s evolving space goals.
