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SOURCE: AFI

In a recent statement, Dr. M. Mohan, Director of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), shed light on the ongoing development of the LME-1100 methalox engine, which is pivotal for the new Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV).

Dr. Mohan confirmed that the preliminary design of the LME-1100 has been completed, with detailed engineering currently in progress. He further outlined that ISRO is gearing up to prepare the engine for its hot test, a crucial step towards completing the engine’s qualification. The development and testing activities are slated to commence this year, marking a significant milestone in India’s space capabilities.

The LME-1100 methalox engine, designed to operate in a vacuum with a thrust of 1156 kN, boasts a specific impulse (Isp) of 332 seconds, utilizing a gas generator cycle. One of its notable features is its ability to throttle from 60% to 110% of its maximum thrust, which provides flexibility for various mission profiles, including potential reusability aspects.

The NGLV, powered by clusters of these LME-1100 engines, is envisioned as India’s next heavy-lift launch vehicle, expected to be operational by around 2030. This ambitious project aims to replace ISRO’s current launch vehicles like PSLV, GSLV, and LVM3 with a more capable, reusable system. The NGLV will support a range of missions from satellite deployment to human spaceflight, aligning with India’s broader space ambitions.

Particularly, the NGLV is integral to ISRO’s plans for establishing a full-sized, human-capable space station by 2035. The vehicle will be responsible for launching the necessary modules, thereby facilitating India’s entry into the elite club of nations with operational space stations. This step not only elevates India’s space technology prowess but also underscores its commitment to advancing space exploration.

The development of the LME-1100 and the NGLV signifies a strategic move by ISRO towards self-reliance in rocket propulsion technology, reducing dependence on foreign technology, and enhancing the payload capacity for both national and commercial missions. The methalox (methane and liquid oxygen) combination is chosen for its environmental benefits, higher performance, and potential for in-situ resource utilization on future planetary missions.

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