India’s space agency, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), achieved a significant breakthrough today, bringing the nation one step closer to launching its first crewed spacecraft, Gaganyaan. The successful completion of the recent test flight is an remarkable accomplishment setting the stage for India’s entry into the elite group of countries capable of launching human missions to space.
On October 21, ISRO scientists faced a two-hour delay and tense moments as the engine of TV-D1 initially failed to ignite. The lift-off was first scheduled for 8 a.m. but was rescheduled to 8:30 a.m. Five seconds before lift-off at 8:45 a.m .The mission was abruptly called off due to an onboard computer’s observation of an abnormality.
ISRO’s chief, S. Somanath, assured that the launch vehicle remained safe, and investigations into the defect would follow. After complete analysis, a new launch date would be determined. However, the issue was resolved and the mission finally took flight at 10 a.m.
Addressing the media after the successful mission, ISRO Chairman Somanath expressed his delight, announcing the successful accomplishment of the TV-D1 mission. The primary purpose of this mission was to demonstrate the Crew Escape System for the Gaganyaan program. This crucial system showcased its ability to ensure the crew module’s safety, providing an effective emergency mission abort solution. Whereas Crew Escape System, which initiated an abort condition for the crew module, performed remarkably well Mr. Somanath commended ISRO scientists for their dedication and hard work, particularly celebrating the successful touchdown of the crew escape module.
Main objective of Gaganyaan Programme aims to send humans into space on a Low Earth Orbit of 400 km for three days and bring them safely back to the Earth. ISRO Chief S. Somanath expressed the importance of safely returning them to Earth by landing in Indian waters.
As India sets its sights on the stars, it does so with steady determination and purpose, inspiring generations of space enthusiasts and scientists. The successful test flight serves as a powerful reminder of the limitless potential that space exploration holds for the nation.
Image source: ISRO
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