Sat Mar 29 08:38:27 UTC 2025: ## ISRO Successfully Tests Powerful New Semicryogenic Engine

**Bengaluru, March 29, 2025** – The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced a major breakthrough in its space program with the successful hot test of a new 2,000 kN semicryogenic engine. The test, conducted on March 28th at the ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, marks a significant step towards enhancing the payload capacity of the Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3).

The 2.5-second test successfully validated the integrated performance of the engine’s critical subsystems, including the pre-burner, turbo pumps, start system, and control components. This powerful engine, designated SE2000, uses non-toxic, non-hazardous propellants (Liquid Oxygen and Kerosene) and will power the semicryogenic booster stage (SC120) of the LVM3, replacing the existing L110 stage.

This upgrade will significantly boost the LVM3’s payload capacity from 4 tonnes to 5 tonnes in Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). ISRO highlighted the complexity of developing such a high-thrust engine, a technology possessed by only a few nations. The development involved specialized materials to withstand high temperatures and collaboration with Indian industries.

The successful test is the first in a series planned to fully validate the engine’s design before its integration into the LVM3. ISRO also emphasized the complexity of building the Semicryogenic Integrated Engine Test facility (SIET) at its Propulsion Research Complex, inaugurated last February by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The agency is currently conducting a series of tests on the Power Head Test Article (PHTA), a version of the engine lacking only the thrust chamber, to further refine its performance. Prior to the PHTA tests, ISRO also conducted a series of successful tests on a Pre-burner Ignition Test Article (PITA).

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