Overview
- ISRO successfully completed a flight-acceptance hot test of the indigenous CE20 cryogenic engine at 220 kN thrust at its Mahendragiri test complex, the agency said following the September 9 test.
- The CE20 engine tested is earmarked for the upgraded C32 upper stage of upcoming LVM3 missions and was fired at an uprated level to confirm higher thrust performance.
- During the same run ISRO demonstrated the LOX Tank Pressurisation Module (LTPM) designed for C32 stages, a key system that keeps liquid oxygen flowing reliably into the engine.
- ISRO and reporters frame the validated hot test as a risk-reduction milestone that increases confidence in using the uprated C32 for heavier satellites and in preparations for the crewed Gaganyaan programme, though no operational flight using this specific uprated stage has been announced.
- The CE20 is a home-grown liquid oxygen/liquid hydrogen upper-stage engine that powers LVM3; this test follows earlier sea-level trials and clears a major ground step before the engine is assigned to a flight.