ISRO will send astronauts into space in next mission, Gaganyaan

This mission will be executed between January and March 2024

Bengaluru (Karnataka) – ISRO is set to embark on its next ambitious space endeavour known as the Gaganyaan mission. Following the remarkable achievements of ‘Mangalyaan’ and ‘Chandrayaan’ India is now eagerly anticipating the Gaganyaan mission, which will solidify the nation’s prowess in space exploration. Initially announced by the Prime Minister in 2018, the project faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The execution of the mission is now slated for the period spanning from January to March 2024, with an estimated budget of INR 9,023 crores.

Notably, three nations—USA, former USSR, and China—have successfully conducted crewed space missions. India is now poised to join this elite group. The Gaganyaan mission envisions sending a crew of three astronauts into orbit at an altitude of 400 kilometres for a duration of three days, followed by a safe re-entry and landing in the Indian Ocean.

The Gaganyaan mission encompasses three pivotal phases :

1. Orbital Module Launch : The first phase involves the deployment of the orbital module into space via the LMV3 missile. The module will subsequently re-enter Earth’s atmosphere and land safely.

2. Observation and Data Collection : The second phase features the presence of the ‘Vyom Mitra’s robot within the orbital module. Vyom Mitra will undertake observations and gather crucial data during this stage.

3. Crewed Orbital Launch : In the third phase, astronauts will be aboard the orbital module as it launches. Four Air Force pilots underwent rigorous training for this mission in Russia in 2020.

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The Gaganyaan initiative is anticipated to yield several significant benefits :

1. Technological Showcase : It will showcase India’s cutting-edge technological capabilities, demonstrating its readiness for crewed space missions.

2. Scientific Exploration : The mission provides an avenue for conducting medical, biological, and engineering experiments in the unique environment of space.

3. Space Infrastructure : Gaganyaan will contribute to the establishment of space infrastructure, including the potential to construct a space station, enhancing collaboration with international space organisations, and facilitating interplanetary human missions.

In summary, the Gaganyaan mission marks a pivotal juncture for India’s space program, with its multi-phased approach aiming to achieve crewed spaceflight, scientific advancements, and global collaboration.