India’s journey towards sending humans into space reached a significant milestone as ISRO successfully carried out the first Integrated Air-Drop Test for the Gaganyaan mission. The test aimed to check the parachute-based deceleration system that will bring astronauts safely back to Earth.
A mock crew module weighing 4.5 tonnes was lifted by an Indian Air Force Chinook helicopter to an altitude of around three kilometres over the Bay of Bengal. Once released, it began a controlled fall, allowing the parachute system to deploy.
Parachutes in Action
The deceleration sequence involved ten parachutes opening one after another to ensure a steady descent and safe splashdown. While two large parachutes would normally be enough, a third was added as an extra safety layer. This method also tested emergency conditions where the module might re-enter at a lower altitude than expected.
Preparing for Future Flights
This air-drop test is a crucial part of the larger plan. The first uncrewed Gaganyaan mission is expected to take place by the end of 2025, with the first crewed flight planned for 2027. These missions aim to establish India as a nation capable of independent human spaceflight.
Focus on Safety
ISRO and its partners, including the Indian Air Force, DRDO, Navy and Coast Guard, worked together on this mission. The focus is clear: the safety of astronauts comes first. The parachute system has been designed to ensure a gentle landing and quick recovery after splashdown.
A Confident Step Forward
With this successful test, ISRO moves one step closer to placing Indian astronauts in orbit. Each milestone adds confidence to the mission’s timeline and strengthens India’s space programme on the global stage.
