ISRO ground tests a new version of the PSLV third stage solid motor at Sriharikota

12 November 2026

The Indian Space Research Organisation has carried out a successful ground static test of a new version of the PSLV third stage solid motor, known as PS3, at the Static Test Facility of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota. The test follows anomalies seen in the PS3 stage during the PSLV-C61/EOS-09 and PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 missions. Before the test the agency reviewed the stage's design margins, raw material acceptance criteria, assembly procedures and quality checks. The nozzle configuration was improved to widen design margins, the mechanical interfaces were strengthened with redundant sealing systems, and updated non-destructive test procedures were applied during integration and transportation. Further tests are planned once the data from this one has been analysed. The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle is a four-stage vehicle in which the first and third stages are solid and the second and fourth are liquid.