ISRO completes successful 100% thrust semi-cryogenic powerhead test

ISRO successfully carried out a test of its Semi-Cryogenic Engine Power Head Test Article. The run was the first for this test article at 100% thrust.

The test lasted 35 seconds and took place on 2026-09-05 at the ISRO Propulsion Research Complex in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu.

The Semi-Cryogenic Engine Power Head Test Article test was successful. It was conducted on 2026-09-05 at the ISRO Propulsion Research Complex in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu.

This was the 9th test of the PHTA and the first one at 100% thrust. The test article is rated at 200 tonne.

The powerhead configuration includes all engine systems except the thrust chamber. The test ran for 35 seconds, with a 5-second engine powerhead phase.

Earlier runs had succeeded at 47%, 60%, and 88% thrust. ISRO also said the latest result was as predicted.

The test also validated propellant supply switch over.

The Semi-Cryogenic Propulsion Stage, SC120, is being developed with a 2000 kN-class SE2000 engine. It is intended as a replacement for the L110 core stage of LVM3, alongside an uprated C32 cryogenic upper stage for enhanced payload capability.

For readers tracking lunar launch capability, the test shows progress in a major propulsion element tied to an upgraded LVM3 configuration. The verified facts connect the SC120 stage and uprated C32 upper stage with higher payload capability.

The result also matters because it extends the semi-cryogenic engine test campaign to full-thrust operation, after earlier successful runs at lower thrust levels, while validating propellant supply switch over.