ISRO Successfully Conducts Hot Test of Indigenous SC-120 Semi-Cryogenic Engine.

Science and Technology | Dated: 11 Nov 2025

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a significant milestone by successfully conducting a short-duration hot test of the indigenous SC-120 Semi-Cryogenic Engine at the ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri. This engine, which uses refined kerosene as fuel, is designed to power the next generation of launch vehicles like the LVM3, increasing India's payload capacity and further advancing its self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat) in high-thrust rocket technology.

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • The hot test was successfully conducted at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu.
  • The engine is the indigenous SC-120 Semi-Cryogenic Engine, designed to use refined kerosene (kerolox) as its primary fuel.
  • The success marks a major breakthrough in the semi-cryogenic engine test program, significantly increasing India's payload capacity for future missions.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • The short-duration test successfully validated the engine start-up sequence and component performance.
  • It is a crucial step towards the final qualification and induction of the engine into operational flights.
  • The technology is vital for deep space missions and heavy satellite launches.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

What is the name of the indigenous Semi-Cryogenic Engine that ISRO recently conducted a hot test for?

Correct Answer: SC-120

🚀 Quick Recap:

About Semi-Cryogenic Engine

  • Definition: Uses liquid oxygen and refined kerosene (kerolox) as propellants, Advantage: Higher thrust and efficiency than solid or liquid engines.
  • Model: SC-120 (Indigenous), Application: Future variants of the LVM3 launch vehicle for heavier payloads.