ISRO Achieves Milestone with SE2000 Engine Test for LVM3

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully completed the third hot test of its semi-cryogenic engine, known as the Power Head Test Article (PHTA), on May 28, 2025. Conducted at the ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri, this test is a crucial step in validating the performance of the SE2000 engine, which is set to enhance the capabilities of the LVM3 launch vehicle. This engine will replace the existing L110 liquid core stage, marking a significant advancement in India’s space launch technology.

The Three-Phased Trials

ISRO’s PHTA has undergone a series of rigorous evaluations, including two previous hot tests prior to the latest one. The first test, conducted on March 28, 2025, successfully demonstrated smooth ignition and bootstrap operation for a brief duration of 2.5 seconds. Following this, the second hot test on April 24, 2025, focused on the start transient build-up and the start-up sequence, achieving a hot-firing duration of 3.5 seconds. The third test, lasting 3 seconds, aimed to fine-tune and finalize the start-up sequence, ensuring that all systems are functioning optimally.

The SE2000 engine utilizes an oxidizer-rich staged combustion cycle, employing liquid oxygen and kerosene as propellants. This innovative design allows the engine to achieve a chamber pressure of 180 bar and a specific impulse of 335 seconds, representing a significant upgrade over the hydrazine-based propulsion system of the L110 stage.

Future Integration and Impact on Indian Launch Capability

With the successful validation of key subsystems, ISRO is poised to initiate integrated engine-level trials, paving the way for full operational readiness. The SC120 stage, powered by the SE2000 engine, is anticipated to significantly boost the payload capacity of the LVM3 launch vehicle. This enhancement is expected to increase the payload capacity to Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO) from 4 to 5 tonnes and to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) from 8 to 10 tonnes.

The advancements brought by the SE2000 engine are set to strengthen India’s position in the global space launch market. As ISRO continues to innovate and enhance its launch capabilities, the successful integration of the SC120 stage will enable more ambitious missions and contribute to the country’s growing reputation in space exploration and satellite deployment.

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