ISRO’s Gaganyaan Project

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has marked milestone in its Gaganyaan project. On January 21, 2025, the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) successfully dispatched the Crew Module for the first uncrewed mission, Gaganyaan (G1). This mission is very important as it represents India’s inaugural venture into human spaceflight capabilities.

Overview of Gaganyaan Project

Gaganyaan is India’s ambitious human spaceflight initiative. The project aims to develop the necessary technology for sending astronauts into space. It includes both crewed and uncrewed missions. The uncrewed mission serves as a precursor to ensure safety and functionality before human missions commence.

Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre’s Role

The LPSC, located in Bengaluru, plays important role in the Gaganyaan project. Recently, it completed the integration of the liquid propulsion system. This system is essential for the Crew Module’s operation during its flight. The successful dispatch of the Crew Module to the Satish Dhawan Space Centre is a testament to LPSC’s capabilities.

Technical Specifications of the Crew Module

The Crew Module Propulsion System (CMPS) is a bi-propellant Reaction Control System (RCS). It provides precise control over the module’s orientation in three axes – Pitch, Yaw, and Roll. This control is vital during the descent and re-entry phases of the mission. The CMPS employs twelve 100N thrusters, which are essential for propulsion and manoeuvring.

Safety and Control Mechanisms

The Crew Module incorporates a sophisticated control mechanism. The CMPS is designed to activate after the separation of the service module. It ensures a stable descent until the parachute system is deployed. Additionally, the module includes a pressurisation system with high-pressure gas bottles to maintain operational integrity.

Integration and Future Steps

Before the Crew Module is ready for its mission, it will undergo further integration processes. These include assembling the avionics package and electrical harnessing. After these steps, the module will be sent to the U R Rao Satellite Centre in Bengaluru. There, it will complete the final integration with the Orbital Module.

Significance of the Gaganyaan Mission

The Gaganyaan mission is a landmark achievement for India. It aims to position India among the elite nations capable of human spaceflight. Successful completion of the uncrewed mission will pave the way for future crewed missions. This project is expected to enhance India’s technological capabilities and inspire future generations in space exploration.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the technological advancements in space exploration that have enabled India’s Gaganyaan mission.
2. Analyse the role of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre in the success of ISRO’s space missions.
3. What are the challenges associated with human spaceflight? Discuss with suitable examples.
4. Critically discuss the importance of safety protocols in space missions, especially in the context of uncrewed missions.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the technological advancements in space exploration that have enabled India’s Gaganyaan mission.

1. Development of bi-propellant propulsion systems, enabling efficient maneuvering and control.
2. Advancements in Reaction Control Systems (RCS) for precise orientation during flight phases.
3. Integration of sophisticated avionics and telemetry systems for real-time data transmission.
4. Improvements in materials and structural design for enhanced safety and durability in space environments.
5. Utilization of advanced simulation and testing technologies to validate mission parameters before launch.

2. Analyse the role of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre in the success of ISRO’s space missions.

1. LPSC is responsible for the design and integration of propulsion systems critical for spacecraft operations.
2. Successful development and testing of liquid propulsion technology has been very important for various ISRO missions.
3. Collaboration with other ISRO centers ensures seamless integration of components for mission readiness.
4. Expertise in troubleshooting and optimizing propulsion systems enhances overall mission reliability.
5. Continuous innovation and research at LPSC contribute to advancements in space technology.

3. What are the challenges associated with human spaceflight? Discuss with suitable examples.

1. Ensuring astronaut safety during launch, re-entry, and landing phases, as brought into light by past incidents like the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster.
2. Managing life support systems to provide adequate oxygen, temperature control, and waste management in space.
3. Addressing psychological effects of isolation and confinement on crew members during long-duration missions.
4. Developing robust training programs for astronauts to prepare for emergency situations in space.
5. Mitigating risks from space radiation and microgravity on human health over extended periods.

4. Critically discuss the importance of safety protocols in space missions, especially in the context of uncrewed missions.

1. Safety protocols ensure the integrity of spacecraft and protect valuable technology from failures during testing.
2. Uncrewed missions serve as critical tests for safety systems before crewed missions, minimizing human risk.
3. Implementation of rigorous testing and validation processes to identify and rectify potential issues.
4. Continuous monitoring and data analysis during missions help in real-time decision-making to ensure safety.
5. Safety protocols encourage public confidence in space programs, encouraging support and funding for future missions.