2024-03-04
- Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair, Group Captain Ajit Krishnan, Group Captain Angad Pratap, and Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla are selected as astronauts for India’s Gaganyaan mission, all being experienced Indian Air Force test pilots.
- Technology Readiness: ISRO successfully tested the human readiness of the cryogenic engine (CE20) for Gaganyaan. The LVM3 rocket, equipped with liquid, solid, and cryogenic stages, has been reconfigured for human spaceflight, with all components meeting required standards.
- Launch Vehicle: ISRO's LVM3 rocket, known for its reliability with seven successful flights, will be used for all Gaganyaan missions. The rocket consists of liquid and solid stages, with the cryogenic engine passing final tests on February 14, certifying it for human space missions.
- Crew Module and Escape System: Preparations include developing life support systems, emergency escape provisions, and crew management aspects. Gaganyaan-1, an unmanned test flight, will demonstrate technology readiness and carry an unpressurized crew module for testing.
- Mission Timeline: Gaganyaan-1, the unmanned test flight, is scheduled for the end of 2024 to assess technology readiness. The subsequent manned mission will involve a three-member crew orbiting at 400 km altitude for three days, making history as India’s first crewed space mission.
