Sriharikota (Andhra Pradesh): The Indian space agency is looking at the possibility of having ion propulsion system to power its future satellites, said a senior space scientist on Saturday.

Speaking to reporters, Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre director K.Sivan said: "In order to reduce the satellite mass, we are looking at ion propulsion system."

The centre is part of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

Presently the satellite fuel occupy space and make it heavy. According to Sivan, the proposed technology would be tested in a communication satellite.

The other technology that the centre is working on is semi-cryogenic engine.

He said the centre has tested the ISRO developed cryogenic engine for 20 seconds, and the duration of the tests will be increased in the future.

India's heavy rocket - Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle-MkIII - will be powered by the cryogenic engine.