Bengaluru – The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for a significant milestone in the ambitious Gaganyaan mission to send Indian astronauts into space.
ISRO has announced that it will conduct the first In-flight abort test of its Human Space Mission Crew Capsule on October 21, 2023, between 7 am and 9 am.
The Gaganyaan mission is India’s ambitious project to send its astronauts 400 kilometers above Earth for a duration of 3 to 7 days and ensure their safe return using indigenous technologies.
The heart of this mission will be the launch of the first Gaganyaan TV-D1 mission, utilizing the Human Rated LVM3 (HLVM3) rocket. The HLVM3 is a human-rated variant of the proven LVM3, ISRO’s heavy-lift launcher. It is specifically designed and reconfigured to meet the stringent requirements of carrying human astronauts into space.
The HLVM3 rocket will carry an Orbital Module (OM), which consists of the Crew Module (CM) and the Service Module (SM). The CM is designed as a habitable space with an Earth-like environment to ensure the safety and comfort of the crew during their journey.
It features a double-walled construction with a pressurized metallic inner structure and an unpressurized external structure with a Thermal Protection System (TPS). The CM houses crew interfaces, human-centric products, life support systems, avionics, and deceleration systems.
In the event of an emergency, either at the launch pad or during the ascent phase, the Crew Escape System (CES), powered by quick-acting, high-burn rate solid motors, will ensure that the Crew Module, along with the astronauts, is taken to a safe distance.
The Service Module (SM) will support the Crew Module while in orbit. It is an unpressurized structure containing thermal systems, propulsion systems, power systems, avionics, and deployment mechanisms.
The upcoming In-flight abort test is a crucial step in ensuring the safety of future astronauts participating in the Gaganyaan mission. It will validate the system’s ability to safely separate the crew capsule from the rocket in case of an emergency during launch or ascent, demonstrating ISRO’s commitment to ensuring the well-being of its astronauts.
With this significant milestone in the Gaganyaan mission, India takes one step closer to achieving its goal of sending its own astronauts into space and further cementing its position in the world of space exploration.
ISRO Chief, S. Somanath, has been instrumental in driving India’s vision for human spaceflight and ensuring the success of the Gaganyaan mission.
Under his leadership, ISRO has made remarkable strides in developing the necessary technology and infrastructure to propel Indian astronauts into space.
Somanath’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to this ambitious endeavor exemplify the organization’s dedication to advancing the frontiers of space exploration.
As the Gaganyaan mission approaches its crucial In-flight abort test, Somanath’s guidance and expertise will be pivotal in achieving this historic milestone and realizing India’s dream of sending its astronauts into space.
ISRO’s dedication to realizing this ambitious human spaceflight mission will undoubtedly be a source of pride for the nation as India continues to reach for the stars. Stay tuned for more updates as the Gaganyaan mission progresses towards its historic launch.
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