The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is aiming for a 2027 launch for its first LVM3 launch vehicle equipped with a semi-cryogenic propulsion stage.
“Right now we are on track. The power head tests (on the engine) are progressing with great success. Five to six tests have been completed. We have set the launch target for the first quarter of 2027,” ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan stated throughout a go to to Thiruvananthapuram.
Formerly often called the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk III (GSLV Mk III), the three-stage LVM3 had its first experimental flight in December, 2014. It is ISRO’s strongest rocket to date. The semi-cryogenic stage is designed to make it much more formidable, enhancing payload functionality whereas maintaining prices down, Mr. Narayanan stated.
Currently able to lifting 4200 kg payloads to the geosynchronous switch orbit (GTO), the LVM3 will see important modifications when it’s fitted with the semi-cryogenic stage. The L110 core stage, which makes use of liquid propellant, might be changed by the semicryo stage which makes use of a propellant mixture of refined kerosene and liquid oxygen (LOX). The propellant loading in the cryogenic higher stage, which makes use of a Liquid Hydrogen-LOX mixture, will enhance from 28 tonnes to 32 tonnes.
“The current payload capability of 4200 kg to GTO will increase to 5200 kg with this combination of semi-cryogenic stage and upgraded cryogenic propulsion in the upper stage. The cost of placing the satellite in orbit will come down by 25%,” Mr. Narayanan stated. The improvement of the higher stage enhanced to carry 32 tonnes of cryogenic propellant has been accomplished.
‘Very complex engine’
ISRO’s semi-cryogenic engine has been in the works for a very long time now. Mr. Narayanan described it as a “very complex engine” that makes use of particular supplies to face up to excessive temperatures and oxidiser-rich combustion. Whereas the liquid-fuelled Vikas engine used in the L110 stage provides a nominal thrust of 80 tonnes, the SE2000 semi-cryogenic engine being developed by ISRO is designed to provide 200 tonnes, he stated.
Once perfected, the semi-cryogenic engines will see use in ISRO’s future launch autos as effectively.
The Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) of ISRO is tasked with growing the semi-cryogenic engine and the stage. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had devoted the Semi-cryogenic Integrated Engine and Stage Test Facility (SIET) on the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) at Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, in February 2024.
