ISRO Clears Higher-Thrust Cryogenic Engine for Future Missions
What Happened
ISRO successfully conducted a flight acceptance hot test of its CE20 cryogenic engine at an uprated thrust level of 220 kN at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. The engine is intended for the upgraded C32 upper stage of upcoming LVM3 missions. The test also successfully demonstrated the LOX Tank Pressurisation Module (LTPM), a key system for future Gaganyaan missions.
Key Takeaways
The successful test moves ISRO closer to deploying a more powerful version of the LVM3 rocket, enabling it to carry heavier payloads into space. The upgrade is expected to support future satellite launches and strengthen India's human spaceflight ambitions under the Gaganyaan programme.