ISRO's uncrewed Gaganyaan mission set to soar ahead of 2024 abort tests

Photo Credit: ISRO

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to achieve a major milestone with an uncrewed Gaganyaan mission, potentially launching in the first half of 2024.

Photo Credit: ISRO

Chairman S Somanath revealed that ISRO is simultaneously working on the uncrewed mission and abort tests on the special test vehicle (TV-D2). The decision on which one to launch first depends on their readiness, TOI reported. 

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Abort tests, vital for crewed missions, may take a backseat for the initial uncrewed mission. Somanath clarified that successful abort tests are prerequisites for crewed missions but not for uncrewed ones.

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The first uncrewed mission will not carry the service module. ISRO aims to send the half-humanoid, Vyomitra, but a final decision on its inclusion will be made later.

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Mission Objectives: Uncrewed missions serve as precursors to test various technologies before the crewed Gaganyaan mission, showcasing human spaceflight capabilities in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

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Union Minister Jitendra Singh highlights that successful human spaceflight will lead to sustained human presence in LEO. Gaganyaan's technologies will pave the way for more advanced orbital modules.

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Other projects include the GSLV-MkII, now GSLV, which is set for launch soon in Sriharikota. The satellite (Insat-3DS) will determine the timing of the launch. 

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Additionally, the NISAR (NASA-Isro Synthetic Aperture Radar) mission is another significant event this year.

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In preparation for Gaganyaan, ISRO will establish mission control, communication networks, and essential launch complex facilities during these uncrewed missions.