Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Saturday, achieved a critical milestone with the third major test linked to the ambitious Gaganyaan Mission, which aims to propel Indian astronauts into space
The heart of the test involved the successful launch of the liquid-propelled single-stage Test Vehicle (TV-D1), which carried a component of paramount importance - the Crew Escape System. This safety feature is a vital shield for Indian astronauts in times of peril
The mission's success hinged on the validation of integral motors, comprising low-altitude motors, high-altitude motors, and jettisoning motors. These components are instrumental in safely ejecting astronauts from the spacecraft in emergency situations
ISRO's Chief, S. Somnath, officially marked the mission as complete, underscoring the attainment of all predefined objectives. The journey to this accomplishment was briefly interrupted due to an initial anomaly, which was subsequently resolved
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to commend the victorious test flight, emphasizing that it brings India one step closer to realizing its inaugural human spaceflight program. He also extended his best wishes to the dedicated ISRO scientists
The flight sequence commenced with the launch of the TV-D1, followed by the activation of the Crew Escape System Pillbox. The High Energy Motor (HEM) propelled the vehicle further into the Earth's atmosphere
Approximately 61.1 seconds into the mission, the Crew Escape System was detached from the rocket booster. The Crew Module, with astronauts onboard, separated from the Crew Escape System at an altitude of 16.9 kilometres
The deployment of the drogue parachute played a pivotal role in slowing the vehicle's descent, ensuring a controlled and safe landing
Resembling the ejection seats in fighter jets, the Crew Escape System is a lifeline for astronauts. It automatically activates, swiftly ejecting the crew in the event of mission-threatening issues, particularly during the tumultuous early stages of ascent
This successful test launch stands as a remarkable stride toward fulfilling India's aspiration of sending its first astronauts into space. ISRO is now aiming to have astronauts in space by 2025 and to set sights on the Moon by 2040, marking an exciting phase in India's space exploration journey