ISRO achieves a major milestone by conducting the first Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT-01) for the Gaganyaan Mission on August 24, 2025. This test validates the parachute-based deceleration system crucial for crew safety during re-entry and landing of the crew module.
Significance of the Integrated Air Drop Test
- End-to-End Parachute Demonstration: The test showcased the ability of the parachute system to safely land the crew module, ensuring astronaut safety during re-entry.
- Collaborative Effort: Highlighting the synergy between ISRO and India’s defence and research agencies for complex human spaceflight missions.
Progress in Gaganyaan Programme
Human Rated Launch Vehicle (HLVM3)
- Development Completion: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh confirmed the readiness of HLVM3 for crew missions.
Orbital Module and Crew Escape System
- Propulsion Systems: Testing completed for Crew and Service Modules.
- ECLSS Engineering Model: Realized for Environmental Control and Life Support System.
- Crew Escape System: Development completed with static testing of five motor types.
Infrastructure Development
- Key Facilities Ready: Including Orbital Module Preparation Facility, Gaganyaan Control Centre, Crew Training Facility, and Second Launch Pad modifications.
Precursor Missions and Future Steps
Test Vehicle Demonstrations
- TV-D1 Mission: Successfully validated the Crew Escape System.
- Upcoming Tests: Preparations ongoing for TV-D2 and subsequent missions.
First Uncrewed Mission (G1)
- Realization Completion: C32-G stage, HS200 motors, and CES modules.
- Structural Modules: Completed for Crew and Service Modules with Phase-1 checks in progress.
Long-Term Vision: BAS and Moon Mission
- Bharatiya Antariksha Station (BAS): Aimed for India’s own space station by 2035 for long-duration human missions.
- Indian Moon Landing by 2040: Vision to put an astronaut on the Moon within 15 years, leveraging Gaganyaan experiences.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- ISRO achieves a significant milestone with the Integrated Air Drop Test for Gaganyaan Mission.
- Collaboration with defence and research agencies is crucial for complex space missions.
- India’s space programme advances towards crewed missions with successful infrastructure and system developments.
- Future plans include a space station and a Moon landing, expanding India’s space exploration capabilities.
