Archive · 1 Feb 2026
ISRO Tests LOX-Methane Engine Thrust Chamber
ISRO, which is India's space agency, has successfully tested a new type of rocket engine.
This engine uses a special fuel called LOX-methane, which is a mix of liquid oxygen and methane.
The test was done in a special place called the Thrust Chamber Test facility in Mahendragiri.
The engine performed well, and the test reached a high pressure of 56 bar.
This type of engine is important for future rockets because it is easy to store, not very toxic, and costs less to make.
ISRO will do more tests to make the engine even better.
ISRO successfully conducted the first hot test of a high thrust LOX-methane engine thrust chamber on January 27, 2026.
The test reached a chamber pressure of 56 bar using additive manufacturing.
The engine's ignition, flame sustenance, and overall performance were normal.
LOX-methane engines are favored for future rockets due to their storability, low toxicity, and cost-effectiveness.
Further hot tests will be conducted to optimize the injector configuration.
- Who
- ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation)
- What
- First hot test of a high thrust LOX-methane engine thrust chamber
- When
- January 27, 2026
- Where
- Thrust Chamber Test facility, IPRC, Mahendragiri
- Why
- To develop a next-generation launch vehicle engine with optimal performance and storability
- Organization
- ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation)
- Engine Type
- LOX-Methane
- Test Location
- Thrust Chamber Test facility, IPRC, Mahendragiri
- Test Date
- January 27, 2026
- Chamber Pressure
- 56 bar
- Manufacturing Method
- Additive manufacturing
- Propellant Advantages
- Storability, low toxicity, availability, production cost