ISRO’s Gaganyaan Crew Module Air-Drop Test Scheduled for Next Week
ISRO's Gaganyaan Crew Module Air-Drop Test Scheduled for Next Week
ISRO, India’s space agency, is preparing for a significant test as part of its Gaganyaan mission, which aims to send Indian astronauts to space. This test, scheduled for next week, is an integrated air-drop test involving the Gaganyaan crew module. Originally planned for this week, the test was rescheduled to allow more time for technical preparations and to ensure favorable weather conditions.
The air-drop test will take place at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, a key facility for India’s space missions. During this test, an Indian Air Force helicopter will lift the crew module to a height of about 3.5 to 4 kilometers. Once released, the module will begin a controlled descent, using a series of parachutes to slow its fall. The test will end with a splashdown in the Bay of Bengal.
This test is crucial because it helps ISRO evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the crew module’s parachute system. These parachutes are essential for a smooth landing after space missions, ensuring astronauts return safely to Earth. The controlled drop allows engineers to monitor how the parachutes deploy and whether the module lands as expected.
ISRO has also issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), which informs pilots and air traffic control about airspace restrictions during the test period. This is a common safety measure to keep the area clear during sensitive operations like this one.
The air-drop test is one of the final steps before ISRO conducts the first uncrewed orbital flight of the Gaganyaan mission. This orbital flight will be a crucial test of the entire system, setting the stage for future missions with astronauts on board.
The exact date of the test is yet to be announced, as it depends on various factors, including weather conditions and final technical checks. However, all indications point to the test happening within the next week.
ISRO’s focus on safety and detailed testing underscores its commitment to successful and secure space missions. This air-drop test is a key milestone in India’s journey to send astronauts into space and bring them back safely.
