The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has been conducting crucial simulation missions in Bengaluru using a static mock-up simulator to prepare astronaut-designates for India's maiden human spaceflight under the Gaganyaan programme. These simulations, allowing astronauts to experience spacecraft-like conditions for extended periods, are part of the final preparations ahead of the first uncrewed test flight (G1) scheduled for December 2025, featuring the humanoid robot Vyommitra. This development underscores India's push towards self-reliance in space exploration, with the crewed mission now targeted for 2027.
Overview and Objectives of Gaganyaan Mission
Launched in 2018 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Gaganyaan mission is India's ambitious project under the Indian Human Spaceflight Programme to send humans to space for the first time, making India the fourth nation after the US, Russia, and China to achieve this feat. The mission's primary objectives include demonstrating indigenous capability in crewed spaceflight, conducting scientific experiments in microgravity, and inspiring STEM education among youth. It involves launching three astronauts to a 400 km orbit for three days, where they will perform tasks like Earth observation, biological studies, and material science experiments. The project aligns with India's broader space vision, including the establishment of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (Indian Space Station) by 2035 and a manned lunar mission by 2040, as outlined in the Indian Space Policy 2023.
Key Components and Technology
The Gaganyaan spacecraft consists of an orbital module with a Crew Module (CM) for astronauts and a Service Module (SM) for propulsion and power. The CM, designed for re-entry at hypersonic speeds, features a heat shield to withstand temperatures up to 1,500°C and parachutes for safe splashdown in the Indian Ocean or Arabian Sea. The HLVM3 rocket, an upgraded version of the LVM3, includes human-rated systems for enhanced reliability, with a success rate of over 90% in previous launches. Critical technologies include the Crew Escape System (CES) for emergency aborts, life support systems providing oxygen and removing CO2, and the Vyommitra robot, which simulates human actions like monitoring parameters and responding to queries. ISRO has developed over 80% of the technologies indigenously, involving partnerships with Indian industries like Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for hardware and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) for software.
Timeline and Progress
Initially targeted for 2022, the mission faced delays due to COVID-19 and technical challenges, shifting the crewed flight to 2027. Key milestones include the successful Pad Abort Test in 2018, the TV-D1 abort test in October 2023, and recent 2025 tests like the TV-D2 air drop on August 27 and crew module re-entry on August 25. The uncrewed G1 mission in December 2025 will validate end-to-end systems, followed by G2 and G3 in 2026. As of 2025, ISRO has declared it the "Gaganyaan Year," with propulsion systems completed and integrated drop tests planned, including parachute-assisted landings. Astronaut training, which began in Russia in 2020, now includes simulations at ISRO's Human Space Flight Centre in Bengaluru, incorporating yoga, academic modules, and survival training.
Astronaut Selection and Training
The four astronaut-designates, all Indian Air Force officers, were selected in 2019 from over 200 candidates through rigorous physical and psychological tests. Their training regimen includes centrifuge simulations for G-forces, parabolic flights for zero-gravity, and mission-specific modules on spacecraft operations. Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla's participation in NASA's Axiom-4 mission (delayed to late 2025) has provided invaluable data on microgravity effects, which cannot be fully replicated on ground, enhancing Gaganyaan's safety protocols. Another designate, Group Captain Prasanth Nair, leads the team, emphasizing quick decision-making in high-stress environments.
International Collaborations and Significance
Gaganyaan involves collaborations with Russia (for training and suits), NASA (via Axiom-4 for experiments on human health and agriculture in space), and France (for medical support). The Axiom-4 mission, completed in 2025, offered lessons on space docking and power transfer, as seen in ISRO's SPADEX mission. Economically, the project boosts India's space sector, valued at $8 billion in 2023 and projected to reach $44 billion by 2033, creating jobs and fostering innovations in materials and biotechnology. It also enhances India's global standing, supporting UN Sustainable Development Goals through space-based research on climate and health.
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