ISRO Completes First Integrated Air Drop Test for Gaganyaan Crew Recovery

IN NEWS: ISRO Completes First Integrated Air Drop Test for Gaganyaan Crew Recovery

ANALYSIS

1. Successful Completion of IADT-01
   • ISRO has conducted the first Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT-01) to demonstrate the end-to-end parachute-based deceleration system essential for the safe recovery of astronauts in the Gaganyaan mission.
   • This is a critical validation step to ensure the safe return of the crew module during re-entry and splashdown phases.
2. Multi-Agency Collaboration
   • The test was jointly executed by:
     • ISRO
     • Indian Air Force
     • DRDO
     • Indian Navy
     • Indian Coast Guard
   • This inter-agency coordination reflects the multidisciplinary capability required for human spaceflight.
3. Purpose and Components of the Test
   • The test evaluated the complete suite of parachutes, including:
     • Two drogue parachutes – funnel-shaped devices used for initial deceleration.
     • Pilot chutes – deployed to extract subsequent parachutes.
     • Three main parachutes – ensure a controlled, safe descent of the crew module.
   • These systems collectively stabilize, slow down, and safely guide the module during splashdown.
4. Significance for Gaganyaan Mission
   • This test marks a major step toward validating crew safety mechanisms, a core requirement for India’s first human spaceflight.
   • Ensures the robustness of recovery operations, a key element in manned missions.
5. Upcoming Gaganyaan-Related Missions
   • ISRO is preparing for:
     • Test Vehicle Demonstration (TV-D2) – second stage test.
     • First uncrewed Gaganyaan mission (G1).
   • These missions will further validate systems before the final manned mission.

STATIC PART (AS PER INPUT)

1. About Gaganyaan Mission
   • India’s first planned human spaceflight mission undertaken by ISRO.
   • Aims to send a 3-member crew to low-earth orbit for up to 3 days.
   • Incorporates multiple safety mechanisms: escape system, parachute-based deceleration, crew module recovery operations, and extensive testing.
2. Parachute-Based Recovery System
   • Essential for controlled descent and splashdown.
   • Involves multiple stages: drogue deployment, pilot deployment, main parachutes.
   • Designed to withstand high dynamic loads during atmospheric re-entry.
3. Role of Collaborating Agencies
   • IAF: Air-drop operations, logistics.
   • Navy & Coast Guard: Maritime recovery operations.
   • DRDO: Parachute system, sensors, and materials support.

Updated – 24 Aug 2025 ; 09:17 PM | News Source: NewsOnAir