Wed Jul 09 07:51:34 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

ISRO has successfully conducted two hot tests of the Gaganyaan Service Module Propulsion System (SMPS) at its Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri on July 3rd. The tests, lasting 30 and 100 seconds, validated the test article configuration. The overall performance was normal, and the 100-second test demonstrated simultaneous operation of all Reaction Control System (RCS) thrusters and Liquid Apogee Motor (LAM) engines. ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion System Centre (LPSC) is leading the technology development for the SMPS, a critical system for orbital maneuvering and abort scenarios. ISRO plans to conduct a full duration hot test soon, building on the confidence gained from these tests. The Gaganyaan programme aims to demonstrate India’s capability to launch a crewed spacecraft into low Earth orbit.

**News Article:**

**ISRO Achieves Key Milestone in Gaganyaan Mission with Successful Propulsion System Tests**

**Bengaluru, July 9, 2025** – The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced today the successful completion of two hot tests of the Gaganyaan Service Module Propulsion System (SMPS), a crucial step towards India’s ambitious human spaceflight program. The tests, conducted on July 3rd at ISRO’s Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri, lasted 30 and 100 seconds respectively.

“The objective of these short-duration tests was to validate the test article configuration, and we are pleased to report that the overall performance of the propulsion system was normal, aligning with pre-test predictions,” stated ISRO in a press release.

The longer, 100-second test showcased the simultaneous operation of all Reaction Control System (RCS) thrusters in various modes, alongside all Liquid Apogee Motor (LAM) engines. This demonstration is a significant achievement, highlighting the robustness and reliability of the SMPS.

The SMPS is a critical component of the Gaganyaan Orbital Module, responsible for orbital maneuvering and handling specific abort scenarios. It comprises five Liquid Apogee Motor (LAM) engines, each with a 440N thrust, and 16 Reaction Control System (RCS) thrusters, each with a 100N thrust. ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion System Centre (LPSC) is leading the technology development for this vital system.

“Based on the positive results and experience gained from these hot tests, ISRO is confident in moving forward with a full duration hot test in the near future,” the release continued.

The Gaganyaan program aims to demonstrate India’s capability to launch a crewed spacecraft into low Earth orbit, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s space exploration efforts. The knowledge and experience gained from this mission are deemed crucial for future space endeavors.

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