Produced by: Tarun Mishra
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is preparing for a crucial test as part of the Gaganyaan mission to assess the parachute system of the crew module.
The upcoming Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT) involves a Chinook helicopter dropping the crew module from an altitude of approximately 4-5 km.
The initial IADT aims to simulate a splashdown scenario, where both parachutes deploy as intended, ensuring the system's functionality under regular circumstances.
Following the first test, subsequent IADT sessions will explore various off-nominal situations, including scenarios where only one parachute deploys, both fail to open, or experience delayed deployment.
After the module's splashdown, a helicopter will locate and mark its position for retrieval by the Navy, which will then transport it to the Chennai coast for further examination.
The successful recovery of the crew module is critical, especially considering past instances where the module inverted during testing.
ISRO plans to conduct test vehicle missions to evaluate system performance further, employing single-stage rockets to simulate space conditions.
The crew module, designed to accommodate three astronauts, will serve as the pressurized cabin for their journey to and from space, with future flights incorporating a service module housing support systems like propulsion.