ISRO successfully carries out tests of Gaganyaan crew module systems

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully carried out three major tests of the Gaganyaan crew module systems on July 12.

• The first test pertained to ensuring an upright position for the crew module after splashdown in the sea, considered one of the most important crew safety requirements. 

• To do this, a stored cold-gas-based uprighting system was developed and tested.

• The second test involved examining the separation of the umbilical mechanism that serves as a link between the crew module, where astronauts live, and the service module, which provides power and propulsion.

• The third test validated the structural integrity of the crew module during the apex cover separation event.

• The apex cover protects the parachutes and associated subsystems during the mission. It is separated before parachutes are deployed to decelerate the crew module. 

Gaganyaan Mission

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the Gaganyaan mission in his Independence Day address in 2018.

• Gaganyaan project envisages demonstration of human spaceflight capability by launching a crew of three members to an orbit of 400 km for a three days mission and bring them back safely to Earth, by landing in Indian sea waters.

• For the first human spaceflight, four Indian Air Force pilots have been selected and are undergoing extensive training for the mission.

• A budget of Rs 9,023 crore is allocated towards achieving the objectives of the mission.

• ISRO developed indigenous technologies for the launch vehicle, habitable Crew Module, life support system, Crew Escape System, ground station network, crew training and recovery.

• These technologies are crucial to meet the objectives of Gaganyaan mission and to take up any further interplanetary missions.

• Gaganyaan will not be a one-off mission as the government has given approval for a sustained human spaceflight programme.

• The programme comprises three uncrewed missions and one crewed mission.

• The maiden Gaganyaan uncrewed mission is expected to be launched with a humanoid robot, Vyommitra.

• The first crewed mission is targeted in 2027-28.