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ISRO Qualifies Upgraded SSLV Third Stage After Sriharikota Static Test

Flight qualification follows a 108-second test with data closely matching predictions.

Overview

  • ISRO conducted the static firing on December 30 at the Solid Motor Static Test Facility at SDSC Sriharikota.
  • A new carbon‑epoxy monolithic motor case cuts stage mass and raises SSLV payload capacity by about 90 kg.
  • The upgraded SS3 adds an improved igniter and nozzle and uses fault‑tolerant electro‑mechanical nozzle actuation with low‑power control electronics.
  • Around 233 measurements of pressure, thrust, temperature, vibration and actuator performance were recorded during the test and aligned with predicted values.
  • India expanded solid‑motor capabilities in 2025 with a Sriharikota production line, a second ammonium perchlorate line at Alwaye and a 10‑tonne vertical mixer, and the SDSC facilities also built and tested a motor for a private orbital launcher.