ISRO Successfully Conducts Cryogenic Engine Test For LVM-M6 Mission

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully completed the flight acceptance hot testing of the cryogenic engine designated for the LVM-M6 mission.

The test, conducted on March 14, 2025, at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, is a critical step in the acceptance process for cryogenic engines used in space missions.

“This flight acceptance hot test is part of ISRO’s standard procedure for validating cryogenic engines before each mission,” the space agency stated.

The test for the CE20 cryogenic engine, which powers the Cryogenic Upper Stage of the LVM3 launch vehicle.

Innovative Testing Methodology For Longer Durations

Historically, ISRO conducted hot tests for the CE20 engine under vacuum conditions at the High-Altitude Test (HAT) facility at IPRC, limiting the tests to a 25-second duration due to the vacuum environment.

However, the latest hot test marked a significant advancement as ISRO tested the engine for 100 seconds using an innovative Nozzle Protection System, all under non-vacuum conditions.

ISRO explained that this new testing method significantly reduces setup time and enhances the efficiency of flight acceptance testing. As a result, the agency can now deliver cryogenic stages for space missions faster.

“The CE20 engine performed excellently, with test parameters closely matching predictions throughout the test duration,” ISRO added.

Cryogenic Engine Key To LVM-M6 Mission

ISRO is now set to integrate the CE20 engine into the Cryogenic Upper Stage of the LVM3-M6 launch vehicle, scheduled for the second half of 2025.

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This milestone marks another success in India’s growing capabilities in cryogenic propulsion technology.

Pioneering Cryogenic Technology Development

ISRO Chairman Dr. V Narayanan lauded Indian scientists for their dedication in mastering cryogenic technology.

He noted that, despite being denied access to cryogenic technology by multiple countries, ISRO’s perseverance led to the development of its own cryogenic propulsion system.

“We have successfully developed the C32 cryogenic propulsion system, and today, India has three cryogenic stages,” Dr. Narayanan stated.

ISRO Achieves Major Milestone In Space Docking Technology

In addition to the cryogenic engine success, ISRO also announced the successful undocking of the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission, further cementing India’s place among an elite group of nations capable of satellite docking and undocking technology.

The SpaDeX mission, launched aboard the PSLV-C60 rocket from Sriharikota on December 30, 2024, saw the successful docking of two satellites—SDX-01 (Chaser) and SDX-02 (Target) – on January 16, 2025.

The undocking, which took place on March 13, 2025, was a major achievement for the space agency.

Extensive Preparations Ensure Success

Dr. Narayanan highlighted the extensive preparations undertaken by ISRO, including over 120 computer simulations, to ensure the undocking process went smoothly.

“In our first attempt on March 13 at 9:20 am, the undocking was successful,” he share.

The undocking process involved the extension of SDX-2, the planned release of Capture Lever 3, and the disengagement of the Capture Lever in SDX-2.

With these successes, ISRO continues to demonstrate its growing expertise and technological advancements in space exploration, positioning India as a leader in space technology.