Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved a significant milestone by successfully conducting the first ignition trial of a semi-cryogenic pre-burner.
The trial took place at ISRO's Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, demonstrating India's capabilities in space technology.
This milestone is a crucial step in the development of a powerful 2,000 kN thrust semi-cryogenic engine, aimed at enhancing the payload capability of ISRO's Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk III (LVM3) and future launch vehicles.
The semi-cryogenic engine, developed by ISRO's Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), uses a propellant combination of liquid oxygen (LOX) and refined kerosene (IsroSENE), promising heavy-lift capability for upcoming launch vehicles.
The successful ignition test, conducted on May 2, 2024, at the Semi-Cryogenic Integrated Engine and Stage Test (SIET) facility, demonstrated smooth and sustained ignition of the pre-burner, a critical component for starting the semi-cryogenic engine.
ISRO employed a novel ignition system developed by the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), utilizing a start fuel ampule combining Triethyle Alumnide and Triethyle Boron for the first time in semi-cryogenic engine development.
With the successful pre-burner ignition, ISRO is now moving forward to test the engine powerhead and the fully integrated engine, indicating progress towards advanced propulsion systems.
ISRO is also working on developing a semi-cryogenic stage with a propellant loading of 120 tons, further enhancing the capacity of its launch vehicles.
This achievement underscores ISRO's commitment to self-reliance in space technology and marks a significant advancement in India's space program, paving the way for increased payload capacity and future missions.