In a remarkable display of precision and determination, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a significant milestone in its ambitious Gaganyaan Mission – the endeavour to send Indian astronauts into space. The latest test, part of this mission, involved the launch of the Test Vehicle (TV-D1), powered by a liquid-propelled single-stage rocket, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

The focus of this mission was the validation of the Crew Escape System, a critical component for the safety of Indian astronauts during spaceflight. This system comprises various motors, including low-altitude, high-altitude, and jettisoning motors, designed to safely eject astronauts from the vehicle in case of an emergency. ISRO Chief S. Somnath declared the mission complete with all objectives achieved.

“Im very happy to announce the completion of TV-D1 mission,” said the ISRO chief, addressing the team dedicated to the launch.

Quick Challenge Recovery

The journey to this moment was not without its challenges. Initially scheduled for launch at 8:00 a.m., the mission experienced a delay due to adverse weather conditions. However, what transpired next is a testament to the dedication and problem-solving capabilities of the ISRO team.

Within an hour of experiencing a glitch during the first launch attempt, ISRO identified and resolved the issue. The team’s swift response and ability to rectify the problem within such a short timeframe were truly remarkable.

The flight sequence for TV-D1 commenced with the launch, and six seconds into the flight, the fin-enabling system was activated. The Crew Escape System Pillbox was triggered at a speed of Mach 1.25, approximately 11.8 km above the Earth’s surface. The High Energy Motor (HEM) fired to propel the vehicle further into the atmosphere.

At about 61.1 seconds after launch, when the vehicle reached a Mach number of 1.21 at an altitude of 11.9 km, the Crew Escape System separated from the rocket booster. The Crew Module then separated from the Crew Escape System at an altitude of 16.9 km, travelling at a speed of 550 km per hour. Subsequently, the drogue parachute deployed, slowing the vehicle’s descent.

“Mission Gaganyaan TV D1 Test Flight is accomplished. Crew Escape System performed as intended. Mission Gaganyaan gets off on a successful note,” ISRO announced.

The Crew Escape System, akin to fighter jet ejection seats, plays a vital role in safeguarding astronauts during spaceflight anomalies. It operates automatically, detecting malfunctions or issues immediately after liftoff, prior to rocket stage separation. This rapid ejection minimises potential risks during the early phases of ascent.

The successful test launch was crucial for validating the system that would be indispensable during the Gaganyaan Mission‘s initial phase. It will be responsible for jettisoning the Crew Module, with astronauts on board, to a safe distance in the event of a critical problem. The Crew Module will then separate and safely splash down in the sea, aided by parachutes.

Data gathered from this test will further enhance the system’s development, ensuring its reliability when astronauts embark on the Gaganyaan Mission.

This achievement underscores India’s progress toward realizing its dream of sending its first astronauts into space from its own territory. The Indian space agency plans to launch its first astronauts, who are currently undergoing training, into space by 2025 and aims to reach the Moon by 2040.

ISRO’s unwavering commitment, ability to overcome challenges, and rapid problem-solving abilities have taken India one step closer to a historic space mission, marking a significant milestone in the country’s space exploration journey.