Safety Protocols in Human Spaceflight Missions

The recent return of NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore from the International Space Station brought into light the critical nature of safety protocols in human spaceflight. Their successful mission was underpinned by rigorous safety measures that ensured their well-being. Similarly, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is developing safety protocols for its upcoming Gaganyaan mission. This mission aims to safely transport humans into space using lessons learned from past experiences and current research.

Phases of Human Spaceflight

Human spaceflight consists of three main phases – launch, orbit, and reentry. Each phase has specific safety protocols to mitigate risks.

Safety During Launch

The launch phase is crucial. In 1967, the Apollo-1 tragedy telld the need for robust safety measures. ISRO has implemented ziplines and fireproof lifts at its launch pad to facilitate quick evacuation. A human-rated launch vehicle includes an emergency exit system, allowing crew members to escape in case of a malfunction. ISRO’s Crew Escape System employs a tower-like structure with solid fuel engines to propel the crew module away from the rocket in emergencies.

Launch Escape Mechanisms

ISRO’s Crew Escape System operates in three modes based on altitude. The Low-altitude Escape Motor (LEM) activates during initial flight. The High-altitude Escape Motor (HEM) engages at higher altitudes. In case of a pad abort, both motors work together to transport the crew capsule to safety. Historical incidents, such as the Soyuz T-10 fire in 1983, demonstrate the effectiveness of these systems.

Safety in Orbit

Once in orbit, the Gaganyaan crew capsule will consist of interconnected modules. The crew module serves as living quarters, while the service module contains essential systems. If an emergency arises, the onboard propulsion system can launch the crew module on a sub-orbital trajectory. Although Gaganyaan will not dock with a space station, crew members will be trained in docking procedures and emergency protocols.

Reentry Protocols

Reentry is the most challenging phase. The capsule must control its descent speed to ensure a safe landing. The outer heat shield protects the crew from temperatures reaching 1,800º C during reentry. Once at a specific altitude, the crew will deploy a 10-parachute system to slow their descent. This includes apex cover separation parachutes, pilot chutes, and primary canopies, which reduce the landing speed to a safe level.

Importance of Safety Measures

Safety protocols are vital for the success of human spaceflight missions. They not only protect astronauts but also enhance mission reliability. Continuous improvements in technology and safety measures are essential to ensure the well-being of crew members during their journeys into space.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of safety protocols on the success of human spaceflight missions.
2. What are the key differences between the Crew Escape Systems of ISRO and SpaceX? Explain.
3. Comment on the significance of training astronauts in emergency protocols during space missions. Provide suitable examples.
4. Explain the challenges faced during reentry of spacecraft. How do safety protocols address these challenges?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of safety protocols on the success of human spaceflight missions.

1. Safety protocols ensure the physical and mental well-being of astronauts during missions.
2. They mitigate risks associated with launch, orbit, and reentry phases of spaceflight.
3. Historical incidents highlight the consequences of inadequate safety measures, reinforcing their importance.
4. Successful missions, like that of NASA’s recent return, demonstrate effective safety protocols in action.
5. Continuous advancements in technology and safety practices are crucial for future mission reliability.

2. What are the key differences between the Crew Escape Systems of ISRO and SpaceX? Explain.

1. ISRO’s system features a tractor-type mechanism that pulls the crew module away from the rocket.
2. SpaceX employs a pusher-type system that pushes the capsule away from the launch vehicle.
3. ISRO’s Crew Escape System includes both Low-altitude and High-altitude Escape Motors for different phases.
4. SpaceX’s Crew Dragon focuses on a single escape mechanism that operates throughout the flight.
5. ISRO’s system is integrated with a tower-like structure for enhanced safety during emergencies.

3. Comment on the significance of training astronauts in emergency protocols during space missions. Provide suitable examples.

1. Training prepares astronauts to respond effectively to unexpected situations during missions.
2. Familiarity with emergency protocols enhances crew confidence and decision-making under pressure.
3. NASA’s experience with capsule malfunctions demonstrates the need for well-rehearsed emergency procedures.
4. ISRO’s Gaganyaan mission emphasizes training for docking and emergency protocols despite not docking with a station.
5. Real-life examples, like the Soyuz T-10 incident, illustrate the effectiveness of trained responses in ensuring safety.

4. Explain the challenges faced during reentry of spacecraft. How do safety protocols address these challenges?

1. Reentry involves high-speed descent and extreme temperatures, posing risks to the spacecraft and crew.
2. Atmospheric friction can heat the capsule to temperatures around 1,800º C, requiring effective thermal protection.
3. Controlled descent is critical to ensure accurate landing and minimize impact forces on the crew.
4. Safety protocols include deploying a multi-stage parachute system to slow descent and ensure a safe landing.
5. Continuous monitoring and adjustments during reentry are essential to address dynamic atmospheric conditions.