Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has progressed further in the ambitious Gaganyaan mission by making India’s capability for human spaceflight possible. Before it sends astronauts into space, ISRO will make uncrewed missions as a part of Gaganyaan program, which has reached the first uncrewed mission marked as G1.
On January 21, 2025, the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) in Bengaluru dispatched the Crew Module for G1 to the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. This achievement follows the successful integration of the liquid propulsion system, marking a critical phase in the project.
The Crew Module, central to the mission, includes advanced technology for precise maneuvering during its descent and re-entry.
Crew Module Propulsion System (CMPS)
The CMPS, designed for the Crew Module, is a bi-propellant-based Reaction Control System (RCS). It features:
12 thrusters with a thrust capacity of 100 Newtons (100 N) each.
A pressurization system with high-pressure gas bottles.
Propellant feed and fluid control components.
Precise three-axis control capabilities for Pitch, Yaw, and Roll during descent and re-entry.
The system will function until the parachute-based deceleration system deploys to ensure a controlled descent.
Integration of the Crew Module Uprighting System (CMUS)
The Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) developed the Crew Module Uprighting System (CMUS), which was integrated into the module at LPSC. This system will play a critical role in ensuring the correct orientation of the module during re-entry.
Further Integration and Final Checks
Before the final mission integration:
The Crew Module will undergo further assembly operations, including avionics package installation and electrical system checks, at VSSC.
It will then be dispatched to the U R Rao Satellite Centre in Bengaluru for the final phase of integration with the Orbital Module.
Gaganyaan’s Importance
The Gaganyaan mission represents a monumental step for India in human space exploration. By mastering advanced propulsion systems, precision controls, and integration processes, ISRO aims to demonstrate the reliability and safety required for human spaceflight.
The G1 mission will pave the way for subsequent crewed missions. Testing the Crew Module’s propulsion and control systems under uncrewed conditions ensures that future human missions operate with maximum safety and efficiency.
This development highlights ISRO’s technological advancements and positions India among a select group of nations with human spaceflight capabilities.