ISRO's cryogenic engine hot test for LVM3-M6 mission successful
What's the story
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully conducted a flight acceptance hot test of the cryogenic engine for its sixth operational mission of the LVM3 launch vehicle (LVM3-M6).
The test was held at ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu.
The LVM3, or Launch Vehicle Mark-3, is a tri-stage medium-lift launch vehicle developed by the space agency.
Test details
Innovative nozzle protection system used in hot test
ISRO has said hot tests are a routine part of the acceptance process for the cryogenic engine of every mission.
The indigenous cryogenic engine (CE20) used in the Cryogenic Upper Stage of LVM3 had previously undergone hot testing at ISRO Propulsion Complex's High-Altitude Test facility, under simulated vacuum conditions.
However, this time, the test was conducted for a longer duration of 100 seconds via an innovative Nozzle Protection System under non-vacuum conditions.
Efficiency
Significant reduction in setup time
The new test method cuts down time, effort involved in the flight acceptance test of a cryogenic engine by a significant margin. This means that cryogenic stages can be delivered faster for space missions.
According to ISRO, "Performance of the CE20 engine met all the test objectives and parameters were closely matching with predictions during entire duration of the test."
The successful completion of this test is a major step toward faster delivery of cryogenic stages for future space missions.
Mission integration
CE20 engine to be integrated into LVM3-M6 mission
Having passed all test objectives, the CE20 engine will be integrated into the Cryogenic Upper Stage of the launch vehicle for the LVM3-M6 mission. The mission is slated for the second half of 2025.
The successful hot test and subsequent integration mark significant milestones in ISRO's ongoing efforts to advance its space exploration capabilities.