Bangalore: ISRO researchers have achieved success in reaching a new galaxy with the triumphant examination of the indigenous cryogenic phase, which powers the huge Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV).

Indian scientists have joined hands with an exclusive group of researchers from United States, Russia and Europe, who have the capability to plan and construct cryogen engines that are vital for running up communication satellites plus manned missions to space.

The test was carried out to check its full flight continuance of 720 seconds at the liquid propulsion testing facility at Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, on Thursday. With the successful achievement of this examination, the next flight is getting ready for use in the next mission of GSLV mid-2008.

G. Madhavan Nair, ISRO head said, “This test has given us confidence about the technology, systems and even helped us build a technology base of our own. It has also given the confidence to design a more powerful cryogenic for GSLV-Mark III scheduled to fly in 2009-end.”

He said with such an engine, his organisation would be capable of bringing down the cost of launch of heavy satellites from $20,000 a kg to around $12,000 a kg.

“It will not only help our space programme but we will be able to bid for a slice of the global satellite launch market,” Mr Nair added.