Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has made a strategic decision not to rush its ambitious Gaganyaan project, the country’s first manned mission to space. The objective is to meticulously plan and execute a “sure shot safe mission,” said ISRO Chairman S Somanath during the international conference on Spacecraft Mission Operations (SMOPS-2023) held in Bengaluru.
Delays due to COVID-19 and a new approach
The COVID-19 pandemic has posed unprecedented challenges to space agencies worldwide, and ISRO’s Gaganyaan project was no exception. Chairman S Somanath acknowledged the impact of the pandemic on the timeline of the mission, leading to a reassessment of the approach. The focus now is on redefining the mission to ensure a safe and successful human space flight.
Enhancing testing and demonstration for success
ISRO has significantly enhanced the testing and demonstration phase of the Gaganyaan mission. One key aspect is the inclusion of additional abort missions, which are crucial for crew safety. These abort missions are designed to simulate emergency scenarios and ensure that the crew can be safely returned to Earth if needed. The meticulous planning and execution of these missions will contribute to a higher level of confidence in the mission’s overall safety.
Upcoming milestones and testing
Chairman Somanath provided insights into the upcoming milestones of the Gaganyaan project. The first abort mission, initially planned for July, is now scheduled for August. This will be followed by another abort mission later this year, serving as a crucial step in validating the safety measures of the mission. Subsequently, an unmanned mission is expected to take place in early 2024, serving as a precursor to the manned mission.
Rigorous testing and preparations
ISRO has been conducting rigorous testing and preparations to ensure a smooth and successful launch of the Gaganyaan mission. Somanath highlighted that all engine test programs have been completed within ISRO, showcasing the organization’s commitment to thorough testing and evaluation. Major tests are being carried out on a weekly basis, addressing various technical challenges and fine-tuning the systems required for the mission’s success.
Anticipated launch timeframe and contingencies
Chairman Somanath provided insights into the anticipated launch timeframe for Gaganyaan. If all tests proceed successfully without significant glitches, the mission is expected to be launched between 2024 and 2025. However, Somanath also acknowledged that the complexity of such missions inevitably presents challenges. Should any unforeseen problems arise during testing or preparations, adjustments to the launch schedule may be necessary.
Aditya-L1 and Chandrayaan-3 missions
In addition to the Gaganyaan mission, Chairman Somanath addressed other significant missions by ISRO. The Aditya-L1 mission, focused on studying the Sun, has a launch window from August 2023 to January 2024. If the August launch is not feasible, the mission will be rescheduled for January. As for Chandrayaan-3, ISRO’s third moon mission, it is scheduled for a mid-July launch. Drawing from the experience and success of the Chandrayaan-2 mission, ISRO will follow a similar approach while considering potential contingency conditions.
Indigenous Efforts and commitment
Chairman Somanath emphasized ISRO’s commitment to indigenous efforts in space exploration. He clarified that ISRO does not rely on external sources for the Chandrayaan lander, showcasing the organization’s self-reliance in developing critical components and technologies. While ISRO procures certain components such as electronic chips and processors, the overall mission’s execution remains 100% indigenous.
Ensuring a safe and successful journey to space
ISRO’s cautious and deliberate approach to the Gaganyaan project underscores the organization’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and success of India’s first human space flight. Through comprehensive testing, enhanced demonstrations, and a meticulous focus on crew well-being, ISRO aims to achieve a significant milestone in the country’s space exploration endeavors. The Gaganyaan mission symbolizes India’s growing prowess in space technology and its dedication to pushing boundaries for the benefit of humanity.
