India’s space agency, ISRO, is set to make history with the upcoming test flight of the Gaganyaan human-rated rocket, scheduled for December 2024. This mission marks a significant step toward India’s first manned space mission, with ISRO Chairman S. Somanath confirming the timeline following the successful launch of the SSLV-D3 mission. Below are the key points, detailed progress, and plans surrounding this ambitious mission.

Key Points

Gaganyaan Test Flight Date: Scheduled for December 2024.

Rocket Integration: Three stages of the G1 rocket have arrived at the launch site.

SSLV Technology Transfer: ISRO has completed the development phase of the SSLV and is transferring the technology to private companies.

Private Sector Involvement: Hands-on training for private companies to build SSLVs.

Future Infrastructure: Construction of a new launch pad at Kulasekarapattinam, Tamil Nadu, to be commissioned in two years.

@TimesOfIndia

Gaganyaan Rocket Progress

The Gaganyaan mission is on track as ISRO gears up for its first human spaceflight. The G1 rocket is crucial for the mission and has seen significant progress. The rocket’s three stages have been delivered to the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, where integration is taking place. The crew module is assembled at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) in Thiruvananthapuram. ISRO aims to have all systems for the G1 rocket ready by November, ensuring a December launch for the test flight. Dr. Somanath expressed optimism about the progress, noting that the integration of the crew module is advancing smoothly.

SSLV Success and Technology Transfer

In addition to the Gaganyaan mission, ISRO recently celebrated the successful launch of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), which placed the EOS-08 and SR-0 satellites into orbit. This mission marked the third and final developmental flight of the SSLV, signaling the completion of its development phase. Following this success, ISRO is now focused on transferring SSLV technology to the private sector. This transfer includes more than just technical drawings; ISRO will provide comprehensive knowledge and hands-on training to ensure private companies can successfully produce SSLVs.

Empowering the Private Sector

ISRO’s decision to transfer SSLV technology to the private sector is a strategic move aimed at bolstering India’s space capabilities. The selected private companies will receive extensive training and support from ISRO, enabling them to build and launch SSLVs independently. The selection process for the industry partner or consortium is currently underway, with ISRO estimating that it will take about two years for the selected entity to master the technology. During this period, NewSpace India Ltd will fund the production of SSLVs to ensure continuity in the launch schedule.

Future Launch Facilities

Looking ahead, ISRO is expanding its infrastructure to support future space missions. A new launch pad is under construction at Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu. This facility, expected to be operational within two years, will play a crucial role in supporting the increased frequency of launches as India’s space ambitions grow. The new launch pad will provide additional capacity for both government and private sector missions, further cementing India’s position as a leading space-faring nation.

Conclusion

The Gaganyaan mission represents a monumental leap forward for India’s space program. With the test flight of the Gaganyaan human-rated rocket scheduled for December 2024, ISRO is moving closer to achieving its goal of sending humans to space. The successful development and planned transfer of SSLV technology to the private sector highlight ISRO’s commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration. As India continues to expand its space infrastructure, the nation is poised to play an increasingly prominent role in the global space community.