The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully completed three key tests for the Gaganyaan crew module system. The first test focused on ensuring the crew module maintains an upright position after splashdown in the sea—a critical requirement for crew safety.
The second test examined the separation of the umbilical mechanism, which connects the astronaut cabin (crew module) to the service module that provides power. Upon returning from space, the service module must detach from the crew module, as only the latter—carrying the astronauts—returns to Earth. ISRO verified that, just before atmospheric re-entry, all cables and connections would cleanly and precisely disconnect at the right moment without any malfunction.
The third test verified the structural integrity of the crew module during the separation of the apex cover. During the mission, the cabin travels at high speeds. Large parachutes are deployed to slow it down; these parachutes are stowed securely beneath a robust lid—the apex cover—on the cabin’s roof. This cover must be jettisoned into the air just before the parachutes deploy. ISRO tested to ensure that the cabin sustains no damage when this cover is forcefully ejected.
Through these three tests, ISRO has confirmed that the astronaut cabin will separate at the correct time, its parachutes will deploy properly, and it will neither sink nor capsize after landing in the water.
