India is on the cusp of making history with its ambitious Gaganyaan mission, an indigenous program that will send Indian astronauts to space. This monumental endeavor was announced by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chief, K. Sivan, and reinforced by the Prime Minister during his Independence Day speech in 2019.
If completed successfully, India will become the fourth nation in the world to conduct independent human spaceflight, joining an elite group of spacefaring nations that includes Russia, the United States, and China.
The Mission Timeline
The Gaganyaan mission plans to send 3-4 crew members to space, but prior to that, extensive training spanning about 1.5 years will be provided. The initial launch was scheduled for December 2020, but like many global initiatives, it faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The mission is now targeted for mid-2021, with a crewed flight planned for December 2021.
Crew Size
3-4 Astronauts
Mission Duration
5-7 Days
Orbit Altitude
400 km (LEO)
Crew Selection and Training
The selection process for astronauts is being conducted with utmost professionalism. The Chief of Air Staff confirmed that the screening process for selecting crew members for ISRO's human space flight program is rigorous and comprehensive.
Selected candidates will undergo extensive training that includes:
- Physical fitness and endurance training
- Simulated microgravity environments
- Emergency procedures and survival training
- Technical aspects of spacecraft operations
- Psychological preparation for space travel
The Crew Module and Its Features
The crew module capsule developed by ISRO will reach orbit in just 16 minutes. It will carry three astronauts for a period of five to seven days. The design of the capsule allows it to travel in low Earth orbit (LEO), which is 400 km above the Earth's surface. The capsule measures approximately 10 feet by 11 feet.
International Collaboration
The French space agency CNES will assist ISRO in several critical areas including space medicine, astronaut health monitoring, life support, radiation protection, space debris protection, and personal hygiene systems. This international cooperation highlights the global significance of the Gaganyaan mission.
Advanced Thermal Shield Technology
One of the most critical challenges of space travel is re-entry into Earth's atmosphere. During this phase, the capsule might start burning due to atmospheric friction, with external temperatures reaching up to 1500 degrees Celsius.
"ISRO has developed an advanced thermal shield that will keep the internal temperature of the capsule below 25 degrees Celsius regardless of the extreme external conditions."
This technological marvel ensures the safety and comfort of astronauts during the most dangerous phase of their journey.
The Return Journey
For its return, the capsule will take approximately 36 hours to land in the Arabian Sea, just off the coast of Gujarat. The Indian Navy and Coast Guard will be on standby to recover the capsule and astronauts as soon as it lands on water.
The Launch Vehicle: GSLV Mk III
ISRO's Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III (GSLV Mk III) will be used to launch Gaganyaan. This three-stage heavy-lift launch vehicle has the necessary payload capability, designed to carry 4-ton class satellites into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) or about 10 tons to Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
GSLV Mk III will be the launch vehicle for the Gaganyaan mission
Vyommitra: The AI-Powered Half-Humanoid
A fascinating aspect of the Gaganyaan mission is Vyommitra, a name derived from the Sanskrit words "Vyoma" (Space) and "Mitra" (Friend). This AI-powered half-humanoid will fly on the first unmanned Gaganyaan mission.
"I can monitor module parameters, alert you and perform life support operations. I can perform activities and can also be a companion and converse with the astronauts, recognize them and can also respond to their queries." - Vyommitra
Vyommitra represents a significant advancement in space robotics and will play a crucial role in ensuring mission success.
Did You Know?
Vyommitra is designed to simulate human functions in space and will be capable of operating switch panels, communicating with Earth, and reporting back on the spacecraft's systems.
Mission Cost and Challenges
The Gaganyaan mission is estimated to cost about ₹10,000 crore (approximately $1.5 billion). The spacecraft has a mass of 3.7 tonnes. Like all human spaceflight programs, Gaganyaan faces challenges including budget constraints, technical hurdles, and timeline pressures.
Specially-Designed Space Suits
Sending humans to space requires specialized equipment, and ISRO has developed advanced space suits for the mission. The agency has manufactured three bright-orange suits, each weighing less than 5 kilograms and made of four protective layers.
These suits can hold one oxygen cylinder, allowing astronauts to breathe in space for 60 minutes. The design incorporates both safety and mobility, essential for mission operations.
ISRO's space suit prototype for Gaganyaan astronauts
Conclusion: A Nation's Dream
The Gaganyaan mission represents more than just technological achievement; it symbolizes India's growing capabilities in space exploration and its aspirations to join the elite group of spacefaring nations. The entire nation awaits this historic mission with bated breath, confident that ISRO will continue its legacy of successful and cost-effective space missions.
As we look to the stars, we carry with us the hopes and dreams of a billion people. The Gaganyaan mission is not just ISRO's endeavor—it's India's giant leap into the future of space exploration.
We extend our best wishes to the scientists, engineers, and astronauts working on this groundbreaking mission. The entire nation stands with you, the real heroes of India!