ISRO Successfully Conducts Flight Acceptance Test of Uprated CE20 Cryogenic Engine

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully conducted a flight acceptance hot test of its indigenously developed CE20 cryogenic engine at uprated thrust conditions of 220 kN on September 9, 2026. The test was executed at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, advancing efforts to significantly enhance the payload capability of India's heavy-lift LVM3 launch vehicle.

According to ISRO, the uprated CE20 engine is earmarked for the C32 upper cryogenic stage of upcoming LVM3 missions, which will power future satellite launches and support India's ambitious Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme. During the hot test, the space agency also successfully demonstrated the performance of the Liquid Oxygen (LOX) Tank Pressurisation Module intended for the C32 stages.

Operating the cryogenic engine at a higher 22-tonne thrust level enables LVM3 to carry heavier payloads into orbit, fulfilling critical requirements for future deep-space and crewed exploration. This achievement comes shortly after ISRO successfully launched the EOS-05 Earth Observation Satellite aboard the GSLV-F17 rocket on September 4, 2026. ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan reaffirmed that the space agency is preparing for six more orbital launches this financial year, including the uncrewed maiden Gaganyaan flight mission, highlighting India's expanding capabilities in space exploration.