On April 24, 2025, the Semi-Cryogenic Engine underwent a successful short-duration heat test at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC), Mahendragiri. Following the successful first hot test on March 28, 2025, which marked a significant advancement in the testing of the Semi-Cryogenic engine test program, this ignition test marks the second milestone.
In order to verify the engine start-up procedure, the Engine Power Head Test Article—which included all engine systems except the thrust chamber—was heated for 3.5 seconds. The engine demonstrated steady and controlled operation throughout the test, effectively starting and running up to 60% of its rated power output.
These tests are a part of a planned set of assessments intended to verify the performance and design integrity of important subsystems, such as the pre-burner, related control systems, and low- and high-pressure turbo pumps. In order to complete the operational sequencing of the entire Semi-Cryogenic engine, the results yielded vital information.
In order to fully evaluate the engine system and eventually prepare it for integration into ISRO’s launch vehicles, more qualification tests are planned.
