Gaganyaan#Gaganyaan Crew Module

In 1984, Rakesh Sharma became the first Indian born citizen to enter space through a joint Interkosmos mission between ISRO and Soviet space program, when he flew aboard the Soviet rocket Soyuz T-11 launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome in the Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic on 3 April 1984. The Soyuz T-11 spacecraft carrying cosmonauts including Sharma docked and transferred the three member Soviet-Indian international crew, consisting of the ship's commander, Yury Malyshev, and flight engineer, Gennadi Strekalov, to the Salyut 7 Orbital Station. Sharma spent 7{{Nbsp}}days, 21{{Nbsp}}hours, and 40{{Nbsp}}minutes aboard the Salyut 7. He conducted an Earth observation program concentrating on India. He also did life sciences and materials processing experiments, including silicium fusing tests.{{cite news|url=http://m.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/the-down-to-earth-rakesh-sharma/article381946.ece/|title=The down to earth Rakesh Sharma|work=The Hindu|date=2010-04-04 |access-date=2014-04-05 |first=Pankaja|last=Srinivasan|archive-date=2015-07-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150724161536/http://m.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/the-down-to-earth-rakesh-sharma/article381946.ece/|url-status=dead}}

{{stack|File:Почтовый блок СССР ‘№ 5494. 1984.’ Международное сорудничество в космосе.jpg postal block on the Soyuz T-11 mission.]]}}

To commemorate the occasion, the governments of India and the Soviet Union released special stamps and first day covers.{{Cite web |last=Chengappa |first=Raj |date=1984-04-30 |title=Rakesh Sharma becomes the first Indian to travel to space |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/india-today-archives/story/19840430-rakesh-sharma-becomes-the-first-indian-to-travel-to-space-in-russian-spacecraft-802997-1999-11-29 |access-date=2024-03-06 |website=India Today |language=en}}

Preliminary studies and technological development of Gaganyaan started in 2006 under the generic name "Orbital Vehicle". The plan was to design a simple capsule with an endurance of about a week in space, a capacity of two astronauts, and a splashdown landing after re-entry. The project was commissioned in 2007, with expected completion by 2024 and a budget of around ₹10,000 crore.{{Cite web |last=Bordoloi |first=Pritam |date=18 November 2022 |title=Gaganyaan is the First Step in India's Grand Space Ambitions |url=https://analyticsindiamag.com/gaganyaan-is-the-first-step-in-indias-grand-space-ambitions/ |access-date=27 November 2022 |website=Analytics India Magazine |language=en-US}} The design was finalized by March 2008 and submitted to the Government of India for funding. The government's funding for the Indian Human Spaceflight Program was sanctioned in February 2009,{{cite news|last=Priyadarshi|first=Siddhanta|title=Planning Commission Okays ISRO Manned Space Flight Program|page=2|publisher=Indian Express

|date=23 February 2009|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/news-archive/web/plan-panel-okays-isro-manned-space-flight/}} But it fell short due to limited developmental funding. Initially, the first uncrewed flight of the orbital vehicle was proposed to be in 2013,{{cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/simply-put-how-to-send-an-indian-into-space-isro-maned-mission-5308964/|title=Gaganyan: How to send an Indian into space|date=16 August 2018}} then it was revised to 2016.{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/south_asia/8483787.stm|work=BBC News|title=India announces first manned space mission|date=27 January 2010|access-date=5 May 2010|first=Habib|last=Beary|location=Bangalore}} However, in April 2012, it was reported that funding problems placed the future of the project in serious doubt.{{cite news|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Spaceflight-stuck-due-to-budget-CAG/articleshow/12860797.cms|title=Spaceflight stuck due to budget: CAG|date=25 April 2012|newspaper=The Times of India|access-date=11 June 2013|location=New Delhi}} And in August 2013, it was announced that all crewed spaceflight efforts by India had been designated as being "off ISRO's priority list".{{cite web|title=Human space flight mission off ISRO priority list|url=http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/human-space-flight-mission-off-isro-priority-list-406551|access-date=18 August 2013}} By early 2014, the project had been reconsidered and was one of the main beneficiaries of a substantial budget increase announced in February 2014.{{cite web |date=18 February 2014 |title=Rs 171 crore boost to manned space project |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/Rs-171-crore-boost-to-manned-space-project/articleshow/30591353.cms |access-date=26 November 2022 |website=The Times of India}}

Space Capsule Recovery Experiment

ISRO is developing the Gaganyaan orbital vehicle based on the tests performed with their scaled {{convert|555|kg}} experimental spacecraft from Space Capsule Recovery Experiment (SRE), which was launched and recovered in January 2007.[https://web.archive.org/web/20080502160720/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2007-01/22/content_5638117.htm China View: India's first space capsule returns to earth], 22 January 2007[http://www.isro.org/pressrelease/Jan22_2007.htm ISRO Press Release] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080514090034/http://www.isro.org/pressrelease/Jan22_2007.htm|date=14 May 2008}} 22 January 2007 In SRE, an experimental capsule that had been in orbit earlier splashed into the Bay of Bengal after descending from a height of 635 km. The purpose of the mission was to test reusable thermal protection system, management of communication blackout, guidance, navigation and control, hypersonic aero-thermodynamics, braking system, deceleration system, flotation devices and recovery procedures.{{Cite web |date=21 November 2007 |title=Space Capsule Recovery Experiment(SRE) |url=http://www.aprsaf.org/data/aprsaf14_data/day1/SEU10_SRE%20slides%20for%20web.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131224103000/http://www.aprsaf.org/data/aprsaf14_data/day1/SEU10_SRE%20slides%20for%20web.pdf |archive-date=24 December 2013 |access-date=16 August 2018}}{{cite web |title=PSLV C7 CARTOSAT-2/SRE Mission |url=https://www.isro.gov.in/media_isro/pdf/Missions/PSLVC7/publication.pdf |publisher=ISRO |access-date=24 September 2024}}

The latest push for the Indian Human Spaceflight Program took place in 2017,{{Cite web |last1=Rao |first1=Mukund Kadursrinivas Rao |last2=Sridhara Murthi |first2=K. R |last3=Prasad |first3=M. Y. S |date=25 September 2017 |title=The Decision for Indian Human Spaceflight Programme. Political Perspective, National Relevance and Technological Challenges |url=http://eprints.nias.res.in/1359/1/2017-MK-Rao-IAC-17-B3-1-9-IndianHumanSpaceFlightFullPaper.pdf |access-date=26 November 2022 |website=National Institute of Advanced Studies}} And it was accepted and formally announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his 2018 Independence Day address to the nation.[https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/indian-will-take-national-flag-to-space-on-board-gaganyaan-by-2022-says-pm-narendra-modi-in-independence-day-speech/story-ctNAmDef79gbpj7OHrU8dP.html Indian will take national flag to space on board Gaganyaan by 2022, says PM Narendra Modi in Independence Day speech] Hindustan Times, 15 August 2018 The Gaganyaan Programme, was approved by the Union Cabinet on 28 December 2018.{{cite news |title=Cabinet approves Indian Human Spaceflight Initiative: Gaganyaan Programme |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1557587 |access-date=24 September 2024 |agency=Union Cabinet, Government of India |publisher=Press Information Bureau |date=28 December 2018}} The current design calls for a crew of three.{{Cite web |date=20 January 2019 |title=Gaganyaan: Astronauts on mission likely to be pilots, crew module design to be finalised soon |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/science/story/gaganyaan-mission-isro-pilots-crew-module-1435145-2019-01-20 |access-date=26 November 2022 |website=India Today |language=en}} ISRO will perform four biological and two physical science experiments related to microgravity during the Gaganyaan mission.{{cite web |url=http://164.100.24.220/loksabhaquestions/annex/173/AU2259.pdf|title=Lok Sabha, Unstarred Question number 2259|date=4 March 2020|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200305122402/http://164.100.24.220/loksabhaquestions/annex/173/AU2259.pdf|archive-date=5 March 2020|access-date=4 March 2020}} ISRO is planning to replace hydrazine with green propellant on Gaganyaan missions, for which the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) is already working on a monopropellant blended formulation consisting of hydroxylammonium nitrate (HAN), ammonium nitrate, methanol and water.{{Cite web|date=26 March 2021|title=Gaganyaan, India's human space mission, will use 'green propulsion': ISRO|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/gaganyaan-india-s-human-space-mission-will-use-green-propulsion-isro-101616776504769.html|access-date=1 April 2021|website=Hindustan Times|language=en}}{{Cite news|last=Nandakumar|first=T.|date=13 May 2018|title=ISRO making green propellant|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/isro-making-green-propellant/article23874464.ece|access-date=1 April 2021|issn=0971-751X}}

Delays

Many of the fundamental technologies were realized by ISRO by the time Gaganyaan was approved by the Union Cabinet. After receiving approval, many of them were human-rated to make sure their dependability satisfied the requirements needed for human spaceflight.{{Cite news |last=Mukunth |first=Vasudevan |date=2024-03-02 |title=What will Gaganyaan change for India? {{!}} Explained |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/what-will-gaganyaan-change-for-india-explained/article67908278.ece |access-date=2024-03-07 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}} Space Capsule Recovery Experiment II (SRE-2), an extension of the 2007 SRE mission, was canceled in 2018 as a result of excessive delays.{{Cite web |title=Report No. 27 of 2014 Chapter IV |url=http://www.cag.gov.in/sites/default/files/audit_report_files/Union_Compliance_Comptroller_Auditor_General_27_2014_chap_4.pdf}}{{cite web |title=THREE HUNDRED SIXTH REPORT, ACTION TAKEN BY THE GOVERNMENT ON THE RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS CONTAINED IN THE TWO HUNDRED AND NINETY EIGHTH REPORT OF THE DEPARTMENT RELATED PARLIAMENTARY STANDING COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS ON THE DEMANDS FOR GRANTS (2017–2018) OF THE DEPARTMENT OF SPACE |url=http://164.100.47.5/newcommittee/reports/EnglishCommittees/Committee%20on%20S%20and%20T,%20Env.%20and%20Forests/306.pdf |access-date=5 March 2018 |publisher=Government of India |quote=The objectives of Space Capsule Recovery Experiment has been achieved with the successful launch and recovery of Crew Module Atmospheric Re-entry Experiment (CARE) during December 2014 with this, the project has been formally closed. Hence, no projections were made.}} In a reply to the Rajya Sabha on February 13, 2025, Minister of Science and Technology Jitendra Singh Rana stated the COVID-19 pandemic was the main reason of the delay, slowing down the production of avionics components and disrupting the supply chain. Unreliable raw material deliveries caused by supply chain failures, and a worldwide scarcity of space-grade components caused delays in the manufacturing and assembly of mission critical hardware. The project timeframe was extended for extra validation missions and crew safety tests to guarantee the highest standards of safety for astronauts. It necessitated further testing and improvements. To keep the orbital module's total mass within the HLVM3 launcher's lifting capabilities, the design had to be modified, which increased the complexity and engineering time. Delays in the necessary comprehensive study and testing were also caused by the indigenous development of the life support system.{{Cite web |last=Sridhar |first=Vivan |date=2025-02-16 |title=Gaganyaan now in 2028: Trip to space will have to wait |url=https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/bangalore/others/gaganyaan-now-in-2028-trip-to-space-will-have-to-wait/articleshow/118284951.cms |access-date=2025-02-16 |website=Bangalore Mirror |language=en}}

Onboard science experiments

As of October 2021, ISRO selected five science experiments that will be conducted on Gaganyaan. The payloads will be developed by the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad (UASD), Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), IIT Patna, Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT) and the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR). Out of the five, two are biological experiments that will be conducted by IIST, UASD and TIFR and will include kidney stone formation and Sirtuin 1 gene marker effects in Drosophila melanogaster. IIT Patna will run experiments on a heat sink that can handle very high heat flux, IICT will study crystallization phenomena, and JNCASR will examine fluid mixing characteristics.{{Cite web|last=Kumar|first=Chethan|date=21 October 2021|title=Kidney stone formation to gene marking: 5 experiments shortlisted for Isro mission; MoUs in place|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/kidney-stone-formation-to-gene-marking-5-experiments-shortlisted-for-isro-mission-mous-in-place/articleshow/87191859.cms|access-date=26 October 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}

With an emphasis on microgravity research, space biomanufacturing, bioastronautics, and astrobiology, the Department of Biotechnology and the ISRO have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on 25 October 2024 to collaborate on space biotechnology research. The application will be in ISRO's human space flight project, Gaganyaan. The MoU will address problems like food storage, radiation, microgravity, and constant nutrient supply, as well as health risks like cancer, cataracts, and loss of bone and muscle.{{Cite news |date=25 October 2024 |title=Gaganyaan: ISRO, Dept of Biotechnology sign MoU to boost space biotech research |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/gaganyaan-isro-dept-of-biotechnology-sign-mou-to-boost-space-biotech-research-101729859370387.html |access-date=25 October 2024 |work=Hindustan Times}}

A crewed spacecraft would require about {{Indian Rupee}}12,400 crore (US$1.77 billion) over a period of seven years, including the {{Indian Rupee}}5,000 crore (US$0.7 billion) for the initial work of the crewed spacecraft during the Eleventh Five-Year Plan (2007–2012) out of which the Government released {{Indian Rupee}} 50 crore (US$7 million) in 2007–2008.{{cite web|url=http://planningcommission.nic.in:80/aboutus/committee/wrkgrp11/wg11_subspace.pdf|title=Eleventh Five year Plan (2007–2012) proposals for Indian space program|access-date=2 March 2022|archive-date=12 May 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130512061627/http://planningcommission.nic.in/aboutus/committee/wrkgrp11/wg11_subspace.pdf|url-status=dead}}{{cite news

|url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/isro-plans-manned-mission-to-moon-in-2014-108100801012_1.html|title=ISRO plans manned mission to moon in 2014|publisher=Business Standard

|last=Mishra|first=Bibhu Ranjan|newspaper=Business Standard India |date=8 October 2008|access-date=14 June 2013|location=Sriharikota Range (SHAR)}} In December 2018, the government approved a further {{Indian Rupee}}10,000 crore (US$1.5 billion) for a 7-day crewed flight of 3 astronauts to take place by 2021.

Expanding the scope of the Gaganyaan initiative, the Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved on September 18, 2024, the development of the BAS-01 Base Module.{{Cite news |last=Kumar |first=Chethan |date=2024-09-18 |title=Chandrayaan-4, Venus Mission, New-Gen Rocket, Space Station get Cabinet nod, Gaganyaan budget doubles to Rs 20,000 crore |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/science/chandrayaan-4-venus-mission-new-gen-rocket-space-station-get-cabinet-nod-gaganyaan-budget-doubles-to-rs-20000-crore/articleshow/113460686.cms |access-date=2024-09-18 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}} The launch of the BAS-1 unit is one of the eight missions that are now part of the redesigned Gaganyaan program, which is scheduled for completion by December 2028. Hardware requirements and more unmanned flights are part of this expansion, which is meant to supplement the continuing human spaceflight programs. The Gaganyaan initiative has received an extra {{INRConvert|11170|c|lk=on|year=2024}} in financing to support its expanded scope, bringing the total budget to {{INRConvert|20193|c|lk=on|year=2024}}. With four missions under the ongoing Gaganyaan program scheduled by 2026, the development of the BAS-1 module and four additional missions for technology demonstration and validation by 2028, the program aims to develop and demonstrate critical technologies for long-duration human space missions.{{cite news |date=18 September 2024 |title=Bharatiya Anthariksh Station (BAS): Our own Space Station for Scientific research to be established with the launch of its first module in 2028 |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2055978 |access-date=18 September 2024 |publisher=Press Information Bureau |agency=Union Cabinet, Government of India}}{{Cite web |date=2024-09-18 |title=Cabinet approves Bharatiya Antariksh Station, Gaganyaan gets new timeline |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/science/story/cabinet-approves-bharatiya-antariksh-station-gaganyaan-gets-new-timeline-2602049-2024-09-18 |access-date=2024-09-18 |website=India Today |language=en}}

Madhavan Chandradathan, director of Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), stated that ISRO would need to set up an astronaut training facility in Bangalore. The newly established Human Space Flight Centre (HSFC) will coordinate the IHSF efforts.{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/isro-announces-human-space-flight-centre/article25967944.ece|title=ISRO starts Human Space Flight centre|last=D.S.|first=Madhumathi|date=11 January 2019|newspaper=The Hindu|access-date=11 January 2019|issn=0971-751X}} Existing launch facilities will be upgraded for launches under the Indian Human Spaceflight project.{{cite news|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2018/nov/15/indias-human-space-programme-gets-a-fillip-1898396.html|title=India's human space programme gets a fillip|access-date=11 January 2019 |quote=Initially, the plan was the construct a new launch pad for the human space flight, but Sivan told the Express that due to paucity of time one of the two existing launch pads is being modified to meet the requirement.}}{{cite web|url=https://164.100.158.235/question/annex/247/Au1733.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230416160637/https://164.100.158.235/question/annex/247/Au1733.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-date=16 April 2023|title=Question number 1733 in Rajya Sabha|access-date=11 January 2019|quote=It is proposed to utilise the existing launch pad with augmentation for carrying out the initial flights under the Gaganyaan manned space flight programme.}} With extra facilities needed for launch escape systems. Russia is likely to provide astronaut training.{{cite web |date=3 December 2018 |title=Russia To Help India In 2022 Space Mission: Russian Envoy |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/russia-to-help-india-in-2022-space-mission-russian-envoy-nikolay-kudashev-1957344 |access-date=26 November 2022 |website=NDTV}} In Spring 2009, the full-scale mock-up of the crew capsule of Gaganyaan was built and delivered to Satish Dhawan Space Center for the training of astronauts.{{citation|url=http://www.hindu.com/2009/05/02/stories/2009050255231100.htm

|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090504092855/http://www.hindu.com/2009/05/02/stories/2009050255231100.htm

|url-status=dead

|archive-date=4 May 2009

|title=Model of space crew module ready|author=T.S. Subramanian|date=2 May 2009|access-date=14 June 2013|newspaper=The Hindu

|location=Chennai}}

India has already successfully developed and tested several building blocks, including re-entry space capsule, pad abort test, safe crew ejection mechanism in case of rocket failure, a flight suit developed by Defence Bioengineering and Electromedical Laboratory (DEBEL) and the powerful LVM3 launch vehicle.{{Cite news |date=28 December 2018 |title=ISRO: India's manned space mission is on, Cabinet okays Rs 10,000 crore plan |work=The Economic Times |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/science/cabinet-approves-3-member-manned-space-mission/articleshow/67286574.cms |access-date=26 November 2022}} Having met all required technological keystones, the Indian Human Spaceflight Programme was accepted and formally announced by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 15 August 2018.{{Cite web |date=15 August 2018 |title=PM Modi promises India's first manned space mission by 2022 in Independence Day speech |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/independence-day-pm-narendra-modi-speech-first-indian-manned-space-mission-1314906-2018-08-15 |access-date=26 November 2022 |website=India Today |language=en}} Gaganyaan will be the first crewed spacecraft under this programme.{{Cite web |title=Gaganyaan |url=https://www.isro.gov.in/Gaganyaan.html |access-date=26 November 2022 |website=ISRO}} To begin the training of doctors and engineers for space mission, Brigitte Godard, a flight surgeon affiliated with the European Space Agency, traveled to India in 2018.{{Cite news |date=2021-01-10 |title=Gaganyaan: Two flight surgeons to soon leave for Russia for training |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/gaganyaan-two-flight-surgeons-to-soon-leave-for-russia-for-training/articleshow/80198756.cms |access-date=2024-08-18 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}

ISRO's Human Space Flight Centre and Glavcosmos, which is a subsidiary of the Russian state corporation Roscosmos, signed an agreement on 1 July 2019, for cooperation in the selection, support, medical examination and space training of Indian astronauts.{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/its-official-india-picks-russia-to-pick-train-astronauts/articleshow/70031169.cms |title=Gaganyaan: India chooses Russia to pick and train astronauts|date=1 July 2019|newspaper=The Times of India|access-date=1 August 2019}} An ISRO Technical Liaison Unit (ITLU) has been approved to be set up in Moscow for coordination.{{Cite web |date=31 July 2019 |title=Cabinet approves setting up of ISRO's technical liaison unit in Moscow |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/cabinet-approves-setting-up-of-isro-s-technical-liaison-unit-in-moscow-1575834-2019-07-31 |access-date=26 November 2022 |website=India Today |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=ISRO Technical Liaison Unit at Moscow |url=https://www.examrace.com/Current-Affairs/NEWS-ISRO-Technical-Liaison-Unit-at-Moscow.htm |access-date=26 November 2022 |website=Examrace}} In 2021, ISRO established a temporary ground station for the Gaganyaan mission in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, following an extended dialogue with the Australian Space Agency. ISRO has plans to build a permanent ground station for the project there. To gain practical space medicine experience, ISRO is sending two flight surgeons specialized in aviation medicine from the Indian Air Force to Russia in 2021. They are in charge of the health of the astronauts prior to, during, and following their space journey. Also, in order to receive training and expand their theoretical expertise, the flight surgeons will visit France.{{Cite web |date=2020-01-21 |title=France to train Indian flight surgeons for Gaganyaan mission |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/science/story/indian-flight-surgeons-gaganyaan-mission-1638822-2020-01-21 |access-date=2024-08-18 |website=India Today |language=en}}

ISRO and CNES announced on April 15, 2021, a space agreement for cooperation in space equipment, consumables, and space medicine. The CNES team at the European Astronaut Centre in Cologne and the Centre for the Development of Microgravity Applications and Space Operations, or CADMOS, at the Toulouse Space Centre will provide training to flight physicians and Capsule Communicator (CAPCOM) mission control teams for Gaganyaan. Additionally, CNES will operate as a point of contact between ISRO and European Space Agency (ESA). CNES will assist in the execution of a scientific experiment plan for validation missions, knowledge sharing regarding food packaging and nutrition programs, and the use of French medical tools, equipment, and consumables by Indian astronauts. The Indian space crew will thus have access to French technology created by CNES that has been tested and is now in use aboard the International Space Station. CNES will also provide radiation- and shock-resistant carry bags to India to protect equipment. The future cooperation include parabolic flights conducted by Novespace for instrument testing and astronaut training, as well as technical assistance for the building of an astronaut training facility in Bangaluru.{{Cite news |last=Singh |first=Surendra |date=2021-04-15 |title=France inks pact with India, to provide space food, med, equipment for Gaganyaan mission |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/france-inks-pact-with-india-to-provide-space-food-med-equipment-for-gaganyaan-mission/articleshow/82089273.cms |access-date=2024-08-18 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}

In February 2024, IIT Kanpur built and evaluated the Hypervelocity Expansion Tunnel Test Facility, referred to as S2, in the Department of Aerospace Engineering's Hypersonic Experimental Aerodynamics Laboratory (HEAL). Extreme hypersonic conditions of atmospheric entry can be replicated at the S2 facility. It is anticipated that the facility will support Gaganyaan.{{Cite web |last=Tripathi |first=Sibu Kumar |date=2024-02-05 |title=Hypervelocity facility at IIT Kanpur: How it will propel India's high-speed dreams |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/science/story/hypervelocity-facility-at-iit-kanpur-how-it-will-propel-indias-high-speed-dreams-2497864-2024-02-05 |access-date=2024-11-30 |website=India Today |language=en}}

File:Recovery trial operations of the Gaganyaan mission with Crew Module Mockup (CMRM) on 20 July 2023, at the Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam. 03.webp

File:Simulated Crew Module (SCM) Structure Assembly for the Gaganyaan project.jpg

Gaganyaan crew module is a fully autonomous {{cvt|5.3|t|lb}} spacecraft designed to carry a 3-member crew to orbit and safely return to the Earth after a mission duration of up to seven days.

The crew module is equipped with two parachutes for redundancy, with one parachute enough for a safe splashdown. The parachutes would reduce the speed of the crew module from over {{cvt|216|m/s|mph}} to under {{cvt|11|m/s|mph}} at splashdown.{{cite web|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/national/isro-drdo-agra-labs-make-711368.html|title=Agra lab parachutes to bring back India astronauts|date=4 January 2019|newspaper=Deccan Herald|access-date=11 January 2019}}

The space capsule will have life support and environmental control systems. It will be equipped with emergency mission abort capabilities and a Crew Escape System (CES) that can be activated during the first stage or second rocket stage burn.{{cite news|title=ISRO gears up for manned space mission

|url=http://archive.deccanherald.com/Content/Jan42009/national20090104110557.asp|date=4 January 2009|access-date=14 June 2013|newspaper=Deccan Herald|last=Ray|first=Kalyan|location=Shillong|url-status=dead

|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140203010314/http://archive.deccanherald.com/Content/Jan42009/national20090104110557.asp|archive-date=3 February 2014}} The nose of the original version of the orbital vehicle was free for a docking mechanism, but primary entry was evidently through a side hatch secured by explosive bolts.{{cite web |title=Orbital Vehicle |url=http://www.astronautix.com/craft/orbhicle.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201012911/http://www.astronautix.com/craft/orbhicle.htm |archive-date=1 December 2008 |website=Encyclopedia Astronautica}}

Glavkosmos and Human Space Flight Centre signed a deal in October 2019 for Energia to equip the Gaganyaan crew with life support system and supply thermal control system for the spacecraft. In addition to supplying food, water, and oxygen and assisting in regulating body temperature, the life support system will also handle waste products of crew members. Throughout the mission, the thermal control system will maintain the spacecraft's component within permissible temperature limits.{{Cite news |last=Singh |first=Surendra |date=2019-11-03 |title=Russia to help provide life support system to Gaganyaan astronauts |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/russia-to-help-provide-life-support-system-to-gaganyaan-astronauts/articleshow/71872930.cms |access-date=2024-08-07 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}

The Human Space Flight Center and Glavkosmos signed a deal on 11 March 2020, for the manufacture and supply of individual equipment packages. NPP Zvezda will manufacture customized couch liners and individual seats for Indian astronauts as part of the contract.{{Cite web |date=2020-09-07 |title=Gaganyaan: Space suits for India's first manned space mission astronauts under production in Russia |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/life/science-gaganyaan-space-suits-for-indias-first-first-manned-space-mission-astronauts-under-production-in-russia-2077341/ |access-date=2024-08-18 |website=Financialexpress |language=en}}

On 7 December 2022, The Hindu reported that the crew module had entered the production stage.{{Cite news |last= |first= |date=7 December 2022 |title=Spacecraft for 'Gaganyaan' mission developed: ISRO scientist |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/spacecraft-for-gaganyaan-mission-developed-isro-scientist/article66235226.ece |access-date=10 December 2022 |issn=0971-751X}}

Following fruitless attempts to obtain the Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) from other countries, ISRO has declared that it will be developing it on its own for Gaganyaan mission. According to ISRO Chairman S Somanath, ISRO has no experience in producing ECLSS, but it was forced to urge national laboratories and domestic industry to begin developing the technology because there were no foreign partners available to share the technology.{{Cite web |title=ISRO To Develop ECLSS For Gaganyaan Mission After Failing To Get It From Other Countries: S Somanath |url=https://www.ndtv.com/science/isro-to-develop-eclss-for-gaganyaan-mission-after-failing-to-get-it-from-other-countries-s-somanath-4665625 |access-date=2023-12-13 |website=NDTV.com}} The first orbiter module adaptor assembly (OMA) for Gaganyaan was provided by Kineco Kaman Composites on 23 December 2023. The OMA is a conical structure with a diameter of 4 meters, composed of carbon-fiber-reinforced polymers. It is combined with the equipment bay shroud and crew escape module.{{Cite news |date=2023-12-23 |title=Pilerne-based Kineco Kaman delivers key component for Isro's human space mission |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/pilerne-based-kineco-kaman-delivers-key-component-for-isros-human-space-mission/articleshow/106220954.cms |access-date=2024-02-13 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}

The Emergency Sea Water Purification Kit was developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation. The package provides astronauts with clean water during operations and emergencies by eliminating excessive levels of Total Dissolved Matter, turbidity, color, and microbiological contamination from sea water in 30 minutes. The user testing for the Gaganyaan mission at Bombay Dockyard was successfully completed in 2022.{{cite web |title=Annual Report 2022-23 |url=https://mod.gov.in/sites/default/files/DEFENCE%20AR%202022-23%20LOW.pdf |website=Ministry of Defence |publisher=Government of India |access-date=30 March 2024}}

In order to visit the International Space Station (ISS) and Bharatiya Antariksha Station in the future, ISRO intends to incorporate International Docking System Standard (IDSS) compatibility.{{Cite web |title=ISRO Starts Work On India's Maiden Space Station, Here's How It May Look |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/isro-starts-work-on-indias-maiden-space-station-heres-how-it-may-look-5171921 |access-date=2024-04-19 |website=NDTV.com}} A Docking Adaptor called Bhartiya Docking System is currently under development.{{Cite web |title=ISRO: India's space station to have 5 modules, BAS-1 to take flight in 2028 - The Economic Times |url=https://m.economictimes.com/news/science/indias-space-station-to-have-5-modules-bas-1-to-take-flight-in-2028/articleshow/114055448.cms |access-date=2024-10-09 |website=m.economictimes.com|date=8 October 2024 |last1=Choudhary |first1=Puran }}

The Gaganyaan Spacecraft will have a {{cvt|2.9|t|lb}} service module is powered by liquid propellant engines. The crew module is mated to the service module, and together they constitute {{cvt|8.2|t|lb}} orbital module.

The Service Module Propulsion System (SMPS) will perform an orbit raising manoeuvre allowing Gaganyaan to reach 400 km in low Earth orbit (LEO), then remain docked during a deorbit burn until atmospheric reentry. It will use an unified bipropellant system consisting of MON-3 and Monomethylhydrazine as oxidizer and fuel, having five main engines derived from ISRO's liquid apogee motor with {{cvt|440|N}} thrust and sixteen 100 N reaction control system (RCS) thrusters.

On 11 August 2022, ISRO successfully completed the test firing of Low Altitude Escape Motor (LEM) for Crew Escape System. LEM consists of a solid rocket motor with four reverse flow nozzles that generates maximum sea level thrust of 842 kN (nominal) with burn time of 5.98 second (nominal). The nozzle end of LEM is mounted at the fore end of the launch vehicle to avoid exhaust plume impingement on crew module. This is why there are reverse flow multiple nozzle in the solid rocket motor. The reverse flow nozzle makes exhaust gas flow in opposite direction in the nozzle region.{{cite web |title=Gaganyaan Low Altitude Escape Motor (LEM) Static Test |url=https://www.isro.gov.in/ISRO_EN/Gaganyaan_LEM.html |publisher=Indian Space Research Organisation |access-date=30 November 2022}}{{Cite web |last= |date=2022-08-10 |title=ISRO successfully completes Gaganyaan low altitude escape motor static test |url=https://www.livemint.com/science/news/isro-successfully-completes-gaganyaan-low-altitude-escape-motor-static-test-11660151294654.html |access-date=2024-01-11 |website=mint |language=en}}

The objective of this test was to check ballistic parameters, validate motor subsystem performance (and confirm the design margins), evaluate the thermal performance of nozzle liners especially to confirm the ablative characteristics, validate integrity of all interfaces, evaluate the head-end mounted safe arm (HMSA) based ignition system performance, and evaluate side thrust due to misalignment and variation in flow and other functional parameters including flow reversal.{{cite news |last1=Kumar |first1=Chethan |title=Gaganyaan: Low Altitude Escape motor of crew escape system tested |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/gaganyaan-important-crew-escape-system-test-complete/articleshow/93487636.cms |access-date=30 November 2022 |agency=TNN |work=The Times of India |date=11 August 2022}}

A system demonstration model (SDM) of the Service Module Propulsion System (SMPS), which will be incorporated into the Gaganyaan spacecraft, was successfully tested by ISRO on 28 August 2021.{{Cite news |last=Kumar |first=Chethan |date=2021-08-28 |title=Isro tests Gaganyaan service module propulsion system |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/isro-tests-gaganyaan-service-module-propulsion-system/articleshow/85715953.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2024-01-08 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}} The service module is designed and developed by Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC).{{Cite news |last=Kumar |first=Chethan |date=2023-07-20 |title=Gaganyaan: Key service module propulsion system test completed |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/gaganyaan-key-service-module-propulsion-system-test-completed/articleshow/101982788.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2024-01-08 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}File:Gaganyaan Service Module Propulsion System (SMPS) System Demonstration Model (SDM) hot test conducted on 19 July 2023 at IPRC, Mahendragiri.webp successfully established the faultless operation of all components and systems.]]At the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC), the system demonstration model was fired for 450 seconds. The performance met the pre-test prediction model. The propulsion system for the service module is a single bi-propellant system consists of sixteen 100 Newton thrusters for reaction control system (RCS) and five primary 440 Newton thrust engines, using monomethylhydrazine (MMH) and mixed oxides of nitrogen (MON-3) as the fuel and oxidizer, respectively. Additionally, IPRC is constructing a new facility to test the Service Module Propulsion System. To validate the propulsion system on the ground, the test model for the system demonstration employed only eight 100 Newton thrusters and five 440 Newton engines.{{Cite web |last=Dutt |first=Anonna |date=2021-08-29 |title=ISRO successfully tests propulsion system of Gaganyaan service module |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/isro-successfully-tests-propulsion-system-of-gaganyaan-service-module-101630226774141.html |access-date=2024-01-08 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Pinto |first=Nolan |date=28 August 2021 |title=Isro successfully conducts 1st hot test of Gaganyaan propulsion system in Tamil Nadu |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/science/story/isro-gaganyaan-service-module-propulsion-system-tamil-nadu-1846542-2021-08-28 |access-date=2024-01-08 |website=India Today |language=en}}

On 19 July 2023, ISRO successfully completed the test of Gaganyaan Service Module Propulsion System.{{Cite web |last=Pillai |first=Soumya |date=2023-07-21 |title=Isro successfully completes key Gaganyaan test |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/isro-successfully-tests-gaganyaan-service-module-propulsion-system-at-mahendragiri-101689880176892.html |access-date=2024-01-08 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}} Five hot tests totaling 2,750 seconds were conducted by ISRO as part of the Phase-1 test series. Eight 100 Newton RCS thrusters and five 440 Newton liquid apogee motor (LAM) engines were used in Phase 1. The system's hot testing replicated the operation of the flight-qualified thruster, helium pressurization system, propellant tank feed system, and control components. During the test, which lasted 250 seconds, RCS thrusters and LAM engines were used continuously. During the Gaganyaan mission's ascending phase, the RCS thrusters will ensure precise attitude correction, while the LAM engines will supply the primary propulsive force.{{Cite web |date=2023-07-20 |title=ISRO 'hot tests' Gaganyaan mission's Service Module Propulsion System again |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/science/isro-hot-tests-gaganyaan-mission-8850675/ |access-date=2024-01-08 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}

The SMPS carries out orbit injection, circularization burn, on-orbit control, de-boost maneuvering, and service module based abort if necessary during the ascent phase for the Orbital Module.{{Cite web |title=Isro successfully tests engines that will guide Gaganyaan Service Module |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/science/story/isro-successfully-tests-engines-that-will-guide-gaganyaan-service-module-2409265-2023-07-20 |access-date=2024-01-08 |website=India Today |date=20 July 2023 |language=en}}

On 20 July 2023, hot test was conducted in final configuration of SMPS in which sixteen RCS thrusters with 100 Newton thrust and five LAM engines with 440 Newton thrust were used. The propellant tank feed system, helium pressurization system, flight-qualified thrusters, and control components were all included in the hot test which simulated the fluid circuit of the SMPS. The combined performance of SMPS was showcased in the first hot test of the Phase-2 test series.{{Cite news |last= |first= |date=2023-07-20 |title=ISRO successfully tests Gaganyaan Service Module Propulsion System |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/isro-successfully-tests-gaganyaan-service-module-propulsion-system/article67101045.ece |access-date=2024-01-08 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}} Each 440 Newton thrust engine will also be tested individually for longer duration involving various parameters to gain human-rating certification. ISRO has scheduled five additional tests to demonstrate both nominal and off-nominal mission scenarios.{{Cite web |date=28 August 2021 |title=Successful hot Test of Gaganyaan Service Module Propulsion System – System Demonstration Model (SDM) – ISRO |url=https://www.isro.gov.in/update/28-aug-2021/successful-hot-test-of-gaganyaan-service-module-propulsion-system-%E2%80%93-system |access-date=31 August 2021 |website=ISRO |archive-date=19 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220319210431/http://www.isro.gov.in/update/28-aug-2021/successful-hot-test-of-gaganyaan-service-module-propulsion-system-%E2%80%93-system |url-status=dead }}{{Cite web |last=Chaitanya |first=S V Krishna |date=20 July 2023 |title=ISRO successfully conducts hot test of Gaganyaan Service Module Propulsion System |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2023/jul/20/isro-successfully-conducts-hot-test-of-gaganyaan-service-module-propulsion-system-2596774.html |access-date=2024-01-08 |website=The New Indian Express}}

On 26 July 2023, ISRO conducted two more hot tests on the SMPS with success. The thrusters were run in tandem with the mission profile, both in continuous and pulsed mode. The first hot test, which lasted 723.60 seconds, was intended to show how to pump fuel into the orbital module and burn 100 Newton thrusters and LAM engines for calibration. The calibration burn was essential to identify and isolate any non-operational engines. The RCS thrusters and LAM engines operated as anticipated. The goal of the second hot test, which lasted 350 seconds, was to show how the Orbital Module circularizes to reach the final orbit. The RCS thrusters functioned in pulse mode throughout this test, while the LAM engines ran continuously.{{Cite news |last= |first= |date=2023-07-27 |title=Gaganyaan Service Module Propulsion System aces 2 more hot tests |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/isro-gaganyaan-service-module-propulsion-system-aces-2-more-hot-tests/article67126635.ece |access-date=2024-01-08 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}{{Cite web |last=Pillai |first=Soumya |date=2023-07-28 |title=Isro completes two more hot tests for Gaganyaan |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/isro-successfully-conducts-hot-tests-on-gaganyaan-service-module-propulsion-system-for-upcoming-mission-101690484567301.html |access-date=2024-01-08 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}}

File:Integrated Main Parachute Airdrop Test.webm On 18 November 2022, Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) conducted an Integrated Main Parachute Airdrop Test (IMAT) of the Parachute Deceleration System (PDS), in which 5-ton dummy mass equivalent of the actual crew module mass was taken to an altitude of 2.5 km and dropped from Ilyushin Il-76 by Indian Air Force. Two small pyro-based mortar-deployed pilot parachutes then pulled the main parachutes free. The size of the main parachutes was initially restricted to a smaller area to reduce opening shock. After 7 seconds, the pyro-based reefing line cutters cut the area restricting line, allowing the parachutes to inflate fully. The fully inflated main parachutes reduced the payload speed to a safe landing speed. The entire sequence lasted about 2–3 minutes.{{cite web |title=ISRO Completes Major Development Test of its Gaganyaan Parachute System |url=https://www.vssc.gov.in/Gaganyaan_Parachute_System_Test.html |publisher=Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre |access-date=27 November 2022}}{{cite news |title=Gaganyaan: Isro tests parachutes that will bring Indian astronauts to Earth from space |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/science/story/isro-tests-parachute-that-will-bring-indian-astronauts-gaganyaan-mission-2299355-2022-11-19 |access-date=27 November 2022 |publisher=India Today |date=19 November 2022}}

The Parachute Deceleration System is jointly developed by ISRO and DRDO. System design, analytical simulations for parachute deployment, development of ordnance devices for parachute ejection, mechanical assembly, instrumentation and avionics were done by VSSC. In total, five air dropped tests (of 10 parachutes) are planned as part of qualification process.{{cite news |last1=Kumar |first1=Chethan |title=Gaganyaan: Key parachute test simulating astronaut landing complete |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/science/gaganyaan-key-parachute-test-simulating-astronaut-landing-complete/articleshow/95622761.cms?from=mdr |access-date=26 November 2022 |agency=TNN |work=The Times of India |date=19 November 2022}}{{cite web |title=ISRO Completes Major Development Test of its Gaganyaan Parachute System |url=https://www.isro.gov.in/Gaganyaan_Parachute_System_Test_Completed.html |access-date=26 November 2022 |publisher=ISRO}}

On 8 August 2023, ISRO informed the media that Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre in collaboration with Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE), a lab under Defence Research & Development Organisation successfully conducted a series of Drogue Parachute Deployment Tests at Rail Track Rocket Sled Facility of Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL), Chandigarh from 8 to 10 August 2023. Drogue parachutes, which are essential for stabilizing the crew module and lowering its velocity to a safe level during re-entry, were deployed as part of this test. Pyrotechnic devices called mortars are developed to launch parachutes into the air upon command. With a diameter of 5.8 meters, these conical ribbon-type parachutes use a single-stage reefing system that reduces canopy area and lessens opening stress to provide a controlled and smooth descent.{{Cite web |last=Sunilkumar |first=Singh Rahul |date=2023-08-12 |title=How will India's Gaganyaan crew return to Earth? ISRO shows key parachute test {{!}} Watch |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/technology/how-will-indias-gaganyaan-crew-return-on-earth-isro-shows-key-parachute-test-watch-101691842694933.html |access-date=2024-01-07 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}}

A variety of real-world conditions were recreated during the three comprehensive tests in order to thoroughly assess the functionality and dependability of the drogue parachutes. The first test, which replicated the maximum reefed weight, introduced reefing in a mortar-deployed parachute for the first time in India. The second test replicated the maximum disreefed load, while the third test demonstrated the drogue parachute's deployment in a scenario that mirrored the Crew Module's maximum angle of attack it might experience during its mission. All these tests served as a critical qualification milestone for the drogue parachutes, confirming their readiness for integration into Test Vehicle Abort Mission-1.{{Cite news |date=2023-08-12 |title=ISRO successfully conducts parachute deployment tests for Gaganyaan mission |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/science/isro-successfully-conducts-parachute-deployment-tests-for-gaganyaan-mission/articleshow/102651287.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2024-01-07 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}

Rail Track Rocket Sled Facility already completed the test of pilot and apex cover separation parachutes. Ten parachutes will be used in the complex parachute sequence for the deceleration system of the Gaganyaan crew module. The two apex cover separation parachutes are deployed first in the process, and two drogue parachutes are deployed when stability is accomplished. The mission enters the extraction phase once the drogue parachutes are released. Three pilot parachutes separately remove the three main parachutes, which is a crucial step in lowering the Crew Module's speed to acceptable levels for a safe landing.{{Cite news |last=Kumar |first=Chethan |date=2023-08-11 |title=ISRO conducts drogue parachute deployment tests for Gaganyaan mission |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/isro-conducts-drogue-parachute-deployment-tests-for-gaganyaan-mission/articleshow/102652475.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2024-01-07 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}

On 4 December 2024, ISRO and ESA signed a technical implementing plan to provide ground station support for Gaganyaan missions, which establishes uninterrupted data flow and communication with the mission's Orbital Module for monitoring and orbital operations.{{Cite news |last=Kumar |first=Chethan |date=2024-12-06 |title=ISRO, European Space Agency (ESA) strengthen collaboration with Gaganyaan missions support agreement |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/isro-and-esa-sign-agreement-to-support-indias-gaganyaan-space-missions/articleshow/116037324.cms |access-date=2025-02-16 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}{{Cite news |last= |first= |date=6 December 2024 |title=ISRO ties up with European Space Agency for Gaganyaan missions |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/isro-ties-up-with-european-space-agency-for-gaganyaan-missions/article68954151.ece |access-date=6 December 2024 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}} The radio equipment for the Gaganyaan spacecraft is scheduled to arrive at the European Space Operations Centre in December for compatibility testing. To make sure the spacecraft's radio transmitter and receiver can successfully communicate with the European Space Agency's antenna in Kourou, French Guiana, the test will be carried out at the Ground Segment Reference Facility. To assist ISRO in tracking and controlling the Gaganyaan crew module, ESOC will coordinate a number of radio antennas in the European Space Tracking network.{{Cite web |last=Tripathi |first=Sibu Kumar |date=2024-12-18 |title=Isro to send suitcase-sized model of Gaganyaan's radio equipment to Europe |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/science/gaganyaan-mission/story/suitcase-sized-radio-model-of-gaganyaan-mission-to-be-tested-in-germany-2651139-2024-12-18 |access-date=2025-02-16 |website=India Today |language=en}}

To confirm the network operation of the Gaganyaan orbital module communication system with the ESA ground stations, ISRO and the ESOC jointly finished a series of radio frequency compatibility tests on 12 February 2025. The successful test ensured that the entire communications architecture was ready and that the systems were compatible with ESTRACK. As part of the testing, the Gaganyaan's onboard telemetry, tracking and command, data management, and audio/video systems were integrated with ESTRACK.{{Cite web |last=Tripathi |first=Sibu Kumar |date=2025-02-12 |title=Isro completes testing of European network system to communicate with Gaganyaan |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/science/gaganyaan-mission/story/isro-completes-testing-of-european-network-system-to-communicate-with-gaganyaan-2678643-2025-02-12 |access-date=2025-02-16 |website=India Today |language=en}}

File:Maquette of HLVM3.jpg (HLVM3)|219x219px]]

Following three uncrewed orbital flight demonstrations of the spacecraft, a crewed Gaganyaan is slated to be launched on the HLVM3 (Human-rated version of LVM3) launcher.{{cite web |last=Dutt |first=Anonna |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/gaganyaan-from-astronauts-training-to-tech-upgrade-isro-making-leaps-to-meet-2025-target-for-manned-mission-8546259/ |title=Gaganyaan: From astronauts' training to tech upgrade, ISRO making leaps to meet 2024 target for manned mission |work=The Indian Express |date=9 April 2023 |access-date=10 April 2023}}

While the LVM3 is being human rated for Gaganyaan project, the rocket was designed with potential human spaceflight applications in consideration. The maximum acceleration during ascent phase of flight was limited to 4 Gs for crew comfort and a {{convert|5|m|adj=on}} diameter payload fairing was used to be able to accommodate large modules like space station segments.{{cite book |title=From Fishing Hamlet to Red Planet: India's Space Journey |isbn=9789351776895 |chapter=2.8 2.8 The Next-Generation Launcher: GSLV-Mk III by S. Ramakrishnan |date=15 December 2015 |publisher=HarperCollins Publishers India |quote=Taking into account the LEO payload capability of up to 10 tonnes feasible with this vehicle, the payload fairing diameter was fixed as 5 metres to accommodate large modules like a space station segment or manned capsule. Incidentally, considering the possibility of future human space flight missions by India, the boost phase acceleration was capped at 4g, the standard human tolerance level accepted by spacefaring agencies.}} The aerodynamic characterization research was conducted at the National Aerospace Laboratories' 1.2m Trisonic Wind Tunnel Facility.{{Cite web |date=2022-06-06 |title=Bengaluru: 1.2m trisonic wind tunnel at National Aerospace Laboratories completes 55 years of service |url=https://www.aninews.in/news/national/general-news/bengaluru-12m-trisonic-wind-tunnel-at-national-aerospace-laboratories-completes-55-years-of-service20220606001500/ |access-date=2024-11-22 |website=ANI |language=en}}

Furthermore, a number of changes to make safety-critical subsystems reliable are planned for lower operating margins, redundancy, stringent qualification requirements, revaluation and strengthening of components.{{cite AV media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9vVVLpeVos |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/L9vVVLpeVos |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|title=PRL Ka Amrut Vyakhyaan-02, 'Reaching the sky: Indian Launch Vehicles'|date=11 August 2021|people=S. Somanath|time=53:10–53:40|access-date=6 October 2021|medium=video|via=YouTube}}{{cbignore}} Avionics improvements includes an Integrated Health Monitoring System (LVHM), Dual chain Telemetry & Telecommand Processor (TTCP) and Quad-redundant Navigation and Guidance Computer (NGC). The High Thrust Vikas engines (HTVE) of L110 core stage will operate at a chamber pressure of 58.5 bar instead of 62 bar and the Human rated S200 boosters (HS200) will operate at chamber pressure of 55.5 bar instead of 58.8 bar. Segment joints will have three O-rings each. Electro mechanical actuators and digital stage controllers will be employed in all stages of launch vehicle.{{Cite web|title=CSIR NAL Annual Report 2020-21|url=https://nal.res.in/sites/default/files/inline-files/Director%20Report%202020-21%20for%20web.pdf|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210804115645/https://nal.res.in/sites/default/files/inline-files/Director%20Report%202020-21%20for%20web.pdf|archive-date=4 August 2021|quote=In addition, ATF also successfully completed the acoustic qualification of the Strap on Electro Mechanical Actuator Structure for the GSLV MKIII launcher. This would help in improving reliability and also provide advantages in payload capability in comparison with the Electro Hydraulic actuators used earlier.}}

Gaganyaan's green propellant development was confirmed by K. Sivan, and it will be used in all stages of HLVM3. In order to stop rocket engines from emitting chlorinated exhaust products, ISRO has started the development of an environmentally benign solid propellant based on Glycidyl Azide Polymer (GAP) as fuel and Ammonium dinitramide (ADN) as oxidizer. Green propellant combinations including hydrogen peroxide, kerosene, liquid oxygen, liquid methane, ADN-methanol-water, ADN-glycerol-water are all part of the technology demonstration projects that ISRO is conducting. With the use of electric propulsion for spacecraft and the acceptance of liquid oxygen/liquid hydrogen and LOX/kerosene based propulsion systems for launch vehicles, ISRO has already started the transition towards environmentally benign and green propellants. Currently in use in the cryogenic upper stages of the GSLV and LVM3 is the LOX/LH2 mix. In place of traditional hydrazine, ISRO developed ISROSENE, a rocket grade version of kerosene. In the South Asia satellite, ISRO has effectively proven an electric propulsion technology for station keeping operations.{{Cite web |date=2020-12-26 |title=ISRO developing green propulsion for human space mission: K Sivan |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/life/science-isro-developing-green-propulsion-for-human-space-mission-k-sivan-2157949/ |access-date=2024-08-18 |website=Financialexpress |language=en}}{{cite news |title=Making of Green Propellant |url=https://pib.gov.in/Pressreleaseshare.aspx?PRID=1541277 |access-date=18 August 2024 |agency=Press Information Bureau |publisher=Department of Space, Government of India |date=2 August 2018}} 

On 17 November 2020, Larsen & Toubro (L&T) delivered the first piece of hardware—a booster segment—for the Gaganyaan launch vehicle LVM3. The Powai Aerospace Manufacturing Facility in Mumbai, owned by L&T, is where the booster segment was manufactured. The crucial booster segment is 3.2 meters in diameter, 8.5 meters long, and 5.5 tons in weight.{{Cite web |last=Bose |first=Mrityunjay |date=17 November 2020 |title=L&T delivers first launch hardware for Gaganyaan despite Covid-19 restrictions |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/lt-delivers-first-launch-hardware-for-gaganyaan-despite-covid-19-restrictions-916608.html |access-date=2024-03-04 |website=Deccan Herald |language=en}}

The human-rated variant of the S200 solid strap-on booster, or 'HS200', was developed for the Gaganyaan programme in collaboration with Larsen & Toubro.{{Cite news |last=Chakraborty |first=Kabir |date=13 May 2022 |title=Milestone Achieved: Human-Rated S200 Rocket Booster, 'Gaganyaan' Test Successful |url=https://pragnews.com/national/milestone-achieved-human-rated-s200-rocket-booster-gaganyaan-test-successful |access-date=8 January 2024 |work=Prag News}} The first static fire test of HS200 was conducted on 13 May 2022 at Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) for a duration of 135 seconds, carrying 203 tons of solid propellant. During the test, about 700 parameters were monitored and the performance of all the systems were normal. The second-largest functioning solid propellant booster in the world is 20 meters in length and 3.2 meters in diameter.{{Cite news |last=Kumar |first=Chethan |date=2022-05-13 |title=Gaganyaan: Human-rated S200 rocket booster test successful, 700 parameters normal |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/gaganyaan-human-rated-s200-rocket-booster-test-successful-700-parameters-normal/articleshow/91532103.cms |access-date=2024-01-08 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}{{Cite web |date=13 May 2022 |title=ISRO successfully tests large human rated solid rocket booster for the Gaganyaan programme – ISRO |url=https://www.isro.gov.in/update/13-may-2022/isro-successfully-tests-large-human-rated-solid-rocket-booster-gaganyaan |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220513124946/https://www.isro.gov.in/update/13-may-2022/isro-successfully-tests-large-human-rated-solid-rocket-booster-gaganyaan |archive-date=13 May 2022 |access-date=13 May 2022 |website=www.isro.gov.in}}

Like all systems for Gaganyaan mission, the HS200 booster was designed with a number of enhancements intended to increase the safety and dependability of different systems. The enhancements include stronger ignition and insulation systems, improved digital control electronics as well as extra safety features for motor case joints. This booster's control system makes use of one of the strongest electro-mechanical actuators available, complete with many redundancies and safety measures. The enhancement of S200 solid strap-on booster resulted in a decrease in chamber pressure, increased robustness, proof-leakability, and higher margins.{{Cite web |last=MP |first=Sidharth |date=13 May 2022 |title=Watch: ISRO tests rocket booster that is among the largest-of-its-kind in the world |url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-isro-tests-a-rocket-booster-that-is-among-the-largest-of-its-kind-in-the-world-478594 |access-date=2024-01-08 |website=WION |language=en-us}}

{{Main|Vikas (rocket engine)}}

File:Vikas Engine being hot tested for duration of 240 seconds at Principal Test Stand of IPRC Mahendragiri.jpg at ISRO Propulsion Complex.|219x219px]]

Vikas engine variants are used to power the second stage of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), boosters and second stage of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) Mark I and II, and also the core stage of LVM 3.

On 14 July 2021, ISRO conducted third long duration hot test of Vikas engine for core L110 liquid stage of GSLV Mark III at ISRO Propulsion Complex as part of the engine qualification requirements of the Gaganyaan mission. The engine was successfully test fired for a duration of 240 seconds validating all the required performance parameters.{{Cite web |title=Third Successful Vikas Engine Long Duration Hot Test for Gaganyaan Program |url=https://www.isro.gov.in/update/14-jul-2021/third-successful-vikas-engine-long-duration-hot-test-gaganyaan-program |access-date=21 January 2022 |website=ISRO |archive-date=4 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220804151548/https://www.isro.gov.in/update/14-jul-2021/third-successful-vikas-engine-long-duration-hot-test-gaganyaan-program |url-status=dead }}{{Cite web|date=14 July 2021|title=ISRO successfully conducts 3rd Vikas Engine hot test for Gaganyaan mission|url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/isro-successfully-conducts-3rd-vikas-engine-long-duration-hot-test-for-gaganyaan-program-11626277208458.html|access-date=1 September 2021|website=Mint|language=en}}

On 20 January 2022, High Thrust Vikas Engine successfully underwent a hot qualification test for duration of 25 seconds at ISRO Propulsion Complex to validate engine robustness under non-nominal operating conditions for fuel-oxidiser mixture ratio and chamber pressure.{{Cite web |title=Qualification testing of VIKAS Engine for Gaganyaan Programme – ISRO |url=https://www.isro.gov.in/update/20-jan-2022/qualification-testing-of-vikas-engine-gaganyaan-programme |access-date=21 January 2022 |website=ISRO |archive-date=22 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220722152127/https://www.isro.gov.in/update/20-jan-2022/qualification-testing-of-vikas-engine-gaganyaan-programme |url-status=dead }}

{{Main|CE-20}}

File:CE20 engine (E9) undergoing 720 second qualification test for Gaganyaan programme at IPRC Mahendragiri 001.jpg

On 12 January 2022, ISRO conducted a hot qualification test on CE-20 cryogenic engine for a duration of 720 seconds at ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC).{{Cite web |title=Qualification testing of Cryogenic Engine for Gaganyaan Programme |url=https://www.isro.gov.in/update/12-jan-2022/qualification-testing-of-cryogenic-engine-gaganyaan-programme |access-date=21 January 2022 |website=ISRO |archive-date=22 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220722152817/https://www.isro.gov.in/update/12-jan-2022/qualification-testing-of-cryogenic-engine-gaganyaan-programme |url-status=dead }}{{Cite web |author=Surendra Singh |date=12 January 2022 |title=Isro successfully conducts cryo engine test for Gaganyaan rocket |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/isro-successfully-conducts-cryo-engine-test-for-gaganyaan-rocket/articleshow/88861681.cms |access-date=12 January 2022 |website=The Times of India |language=en}} On October 28, 2022, CE-20 E11 successfully completed a Pressure Chamber Test for 30 seconds at IPRC. It was done to check the efficacy of the engine for Gaganyaan missions. On November 9, 2022, the duration was increased to 70 seconds. The test results were on expected lines as per ISRO sources.{{Cite news |last= |first= |date=9 November 2022 |title=Gaganyaan cryogenic engine test successful: IPRC |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/gaganyan-cryogenic-engine-test-successful-iprc/article66115460.ece |access-date=27 November 2022 |issn=0971-751X}}

On 21 February 2024, ISRO announced that the performance of the primary cryogenic engine that will be installed on the LVM3 launch vehicles for Gaganyaan has been verified and approved for use in human spaceflight missions. Vacuum testing of the CE-20 cryogenic engine, the seventh in the series, took place at the High Altitude Test Facility in Mahendragiri on 14 February 2024. In contrast to the minimal standard period for human rating of 6,350 seconds (1 hour 45 minutes), the CE-20 was previously put through 39 hot fire tests under various operating conditions, lasting 8,810 seconds (2 hours 26 minutes). Even the flight engine, which was designated for the inaugural Gaganyaan mission, has finished the acceptance testing, according to ISRO. The flight engine, which powers the upper stages of the LVM3, has an impulse of 442.5 seconds and a thrust capacity of 19–22 tons.{{Cite web |date=2024-02-21 |title=Cryogenic engine for human spaceflight mission, Gaganyaan, tested successfully: ISRO |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/science/isro-ce-20-cryogenic-engine-gaganyaan-mission-9172764/ |access-date=2024-02-23 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}

According to ISRO, life demonstration tests, endurance tests, and performance evaluations under nominal operating settings as well as off-nominal conditions with regard to thrust, mixture ratio, and propellant tank pressure were all part of the ground qualification testing for the human rating of the CE-20 engine. The CE-20 engine's ground certification tests for the Gaganyaan program have all been successfully finished.{{Cite news |last= |first= |date=2024-02-21 |title=CE20 cryogenic engine clears human rating test, ready for Gaganyaan missions |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/isro-accomplishes-key-test-ce20-cryogenic-engine-is-now-human-rated-for-gaganyaan-missions/article67869973.ece |access-date=2024-02-23 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}

{{main|Indian Human Spaceflight Programme}}

File:Gaganyaan Crew.jpg

On 27 February 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi revealed the identities of the first four Indian astronauts: Gp Capt Prashanth Balakrishnan Nair, Gp Capt Ajit Krishnan, Gp Capt Angad Prathap and Wg Cdr Shubanshu Shukla. From this group, two astronauts will train at NASA facilities in preparation for their participation in Axiom Mission 4 to the International Space Station (ISS){{Cite web |date=2024-07-06 |title=2 Gaganyaan astronauts to go to ISS aboard the Axiom-4 mission |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/2-gaganyaan-astronauts-to-go-to-iss-aboard-the-axiom-4-mission-9435821/ |access-date=2024-07-06 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}} and later crewed space mission from India. Shubhanshu Shukla was selected by ISRO on 2 August 2024, to be a member of the Axiom Mission 4 prime crew, with Prashanth Balakrishnan Nair being disclosed as his backup.{{Cite web |date=2024-08-03 |title=Who is Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the 'prime astronaut' for Indo-US mission to space? |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/science/who-is-shubhanshu-shukla-indo-us-space-mission-9492109/ |access-date=2024-08-03 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}} They have all served as test pilots for a long time and are wing commanders or group captains in the Indian Air Force (IAF).{{Cite web |date=2024-02-27 |title=PM Modi reveals names of 4 Gaganyaan mission astronauts |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/science/four-gaganyaan-astronauts-announced-9183379/ |accessdate=2024-02-27 |work=Indian Express}}{{Cite web |last=Siddiqui |first=Huma |date=2019-02-25 |title=Who will be India's first 'Vyomnauts'? Know how India will select astronauts for first manned space mission |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/life/science-who-will-be-indias-first-vyomnauts-know-how-india-will-select-astronauts-for-first-manned-space-mission-1498244/ |access-date=2024-02-27 |website=Financialexpress |language=en}}

The ground uniforms were developed by the staff and students of the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Bengaluru. Under the direction of the former NIFT director Susan Thomas, the NIFT team—which consisted of three students, Lamia Anees, Samarpan Pradhan, and Tuliya D—as well as two professors, Jonalee Bajpai and Mohan Kumar V—worked on designing the ground uniform for the Gaganyaan mission. The team highlighted the importance for the astronaut-designates' pockets to fit perfectly and the uniform must operate well in order to support their motions. Seventy possibilities were considered before the final design was chosen. The NIFT team examined various space agency uniforms, such as those from SpaceX and NASA. The theme that the NIFT team has explored is asymmetry. The group worked on a two-colored, asymmetrical style line. The design was commissioned in 2021 by the NIFT team, and in 2022, they handed the design to ISRO.{{Cite web |last=Monalisa |first=Monika |date=2024-03-05 |title=High flying: Indian Gaganyaan Astronauts sport NIFT-designed space suits; blend of style and function unveiled |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/bengaluru/2024/Mar/05/high-flying-indian-gaganyaan-astronauts-sport-nift-designed-space-suits-blend-of-style-and-function-unveiled |access-date=2024-03-05 |website=The New Indian Express |language=en}}{{Cite news |last=Ullas |first=Sruthy Susan |date=2024-02-29 |title=Gaganauts' ground suit designed by NIFT Bengaluru team has asymmetry as theme |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/gaganyaan-astronauts-ground-suit-designed-by-nift-bengaluru-team-with-asymmetry-as-the-theme/articleshow/108089129.cms |access-date=2024-03-05 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}

According to G. Madhavan Nair, space suit development has already begun in a low-key manner prior to the official Cabinet approval of ₹9,023 crore Gaganyaan project on 28 December 2018.{{Cite web |date=2019-01-09 |title=Gaganyaan a major turning point in India's space programme: Ex-ISRO chairman |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/science/gaganyaan-a-major-turning-point-in-indias-space-programme-ex-isro-chairman/ |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}} During the Bengaluru Space Expo 2018, ISRO unveiled the prototype space suit for the Gaganyaan mission. The orange colour prototype space suit was created at Thiruvananthapuram's Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre.{{Cite web |last=Dogra |first=Sarthak |date=2018-09-07 |title=ISRO Displays Space Suits, Crew Capsule For 2022 Manned Space Mission at Bengaluru Space Expo |url=https://www.news18.com/news/tech/isro-displays-space-suits-crew-capsule-for-2022-manned-space-mission-at-bengaluru-space-expo-1870709.html |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=News18 |language=en}} The lab began working on the prototype development from 2016. The prototype space suit weighs less than five kilograms and is constructed of four layers.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2018-09-12 |title=India Unveils Its Own Spacesuit Design for 2022 Astronaut Flights |url=https://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Latest-News/2018-09-12/India-Unveils-Its-Own-Spacesuit-Design-for-2022-Astronaut-Flights/411589 |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=The Hans India |language=en}} One oxygen cylinder, sufficient for the astronaut to breathe for sixty minutes, can be accommodated in the suit. For the mission, ISRO has already created two suits and is currently working on the third one.{{Cite web |last=Dwarakanath |first=Nagarjun |date=2018-09-07 |title=Isro displays space suit, crew model for 2022 mission |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/isro-unveils-space-suit-crew-model-for-2022-mission-1334124-2018-09-07 |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=India Today |language=en}}

Chairman K. Sivan during an interview with India Today on 9 November 2018 stated that ISRO is continuing the research on spacesuits in order to enhance them.{{Cite web |last=Chengappa |first=Raj |date=2018-11-09 |title=It's not just an ISRO project, it's a national one: K Sivan |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/cover-story/story/20181119-it-s-not-just-an-isro-project-it-s-a-national-one-k-sivan-1384890-2018-11-09 |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=India Today |language=en}} Glavkosmos has also contracted NPP Zvezda for manufacturing customized IVA flight-suits for Indian astronauts.{{Cite web |date=7 September 2020 |title=Russia to make spacesuits for Indian cosmonauts |url=https://www.glavkosmos.com/en/russia-to-make-spacesuits-for-indian-cosmonauts/ |access-date=23 July 2021 |website=Glavkosmos}}{{Cite news |last1=Pramanik |first1=Ayan |last2=Krishnan |first2=Raghu |title=After Gaganyaan, ISRO chairman K Sivan to set sights on space station |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/science/after-gaganyaan-isro-chairman-k-sivan-to-set-sights-on-space-station/articleshow/73237162.cms |access-date=23 July 2021 |work=The Economic Times}}{{Cite news |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=28 August 2021 |title=Indian pilots to return to Russia soon for customised space suits |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/indian-pilots-to-return-to-russia-soon-for-customised-space-suits/article36158300.ece |access-date=3 September 2021 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}} Indian astronauts visited Zvezda on 3 September 2020, to have their anthropometric measurements taken in preparation for the creation of spacesuits later on. On 7 September 2020, Zvezda authorities announced that the organization had started manufacturing space suits for the Gaganyaan mission.{{Cite news |last=Kumar |first=Chethan |date=2020-09-07 |title=Gaganyaan space suits' production begins in Russia |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/gaganyaan-space-suits-production-begins-in-russia/articleshow/77981140.cms |access-date=2024-08-18 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}

Hindustan Times reported on 12 January 2024, that in order to double-check crew safety for the first mission, Indian astronauts are expected to don Russian-made spacesuits rather than the domestically manufactured Intra Vehicular Activity (IVA) suits created by Vikram Sarabhai Space Center.{{Cite web |last=Pillai |first=Soumya |date=2024-01-12 |title=For Gaganyaan astronauts, Isro may opt for Russian-made spacesuits |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/for-gaganyaan-astronauts-isro-may-opt-for-russian-made-spacesuits-101705073205022.html |access-date=2024-01-13 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}}

In collaboration with Space Applications Centre, Sure Safety, an industrial safety equipment firm based in Vadodara, finished developing pressure suit for Gaganyaan mission called Astronaut Crew Escape Suit (ACES). The experiments conducted in vacuum chambers to test the material under laboratory settings are almost finished as of 18 January 2019, according to Nishith Dand, managing director of Sure Safety. The indigenously developed suit weighs 20% less while maintaining high standards of safety against fire, water, pressure changes and one hundredth of the cost of its foreign counterpart. In terms of life support, oxygen/air management, and CBRN resistance, the ACES will combine the finest features of the Russian Sokol and the American Advanced Crew Escape Suit. The ACES's communications, pressure management, oxygen and carbon monoxide sensors, and biosensors for sensing body temperatures have all been developed successfully. The suit features air diverters, utility pockets, touch screen-sensitive gloves, a flexible hood zipper, and lightweight shoes. The temperature range in which ACES can function is −40°C to +80°C. ACES development project helped Sure Safety became one of the few companies globally with the expertise to create and build these types of suits.{{Cite news |last=Shastri |first=Parth |date=2019-01-18 |title=Made in Vadodara space suit to be used in Gaganyaan |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/made-in-vadodara-space-suit-to-be-used-in-gaganyaan/articleshow/67579315.cms |access-date=2024-08-06 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}

In the event of an environmental emergency within the space capsule, ACES will protect the crew. Its goal is to preserve the wearer's life in the event that the spacecraft unintentionally loses pressurization.{{Cite news |last=Ganguly |first=Shramana |date=2016-02-11 |title=Sure Safety to exhibit space suit at Make In India Week |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/sure-safety-to-exhibit-space-suit-at-make-in-india-week/articleshow/50934618.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2024-08-06 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}

An all-purpose software called SAKHI (Space-borne Assistant and Knowledge Hub for Crew Interaction) created by Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre will assist astronauts on the Gaganyaan space travel mission with a variety of duties, including interacting with one another and locating critical technical information. Among its many duties, SAKHI will closely monitor their health, sending data on vital signs including blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation. This information will be extremely helpful in determining the crew's physical state during the Gaganyaan mission. Ensuring a smooth communication link, SAKHI will maintain the crew's connection to the ground-based stations and the onboard computer. The app will also serve as a reminder for them regarding their sleep patterns, food regimen, and hydration levels. An engineering model of the specially designed, portable smart device with SAKHI has been successfully tested by the space facility. The process is ongoing for creating a flight approved, production ready model. Fastened to their space suits, the digital platform is always readily available. Additionally, the astronauts can report their journey using the app in a variety of formats, such as voice notes, texts, and photos.{{Cite news |last=Rajwi |first=Tiki |date=2024-03-18 |title=SAKHI to be a friend in need for Gaganyaan crew |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/sakhi-to-be-a-friend-in-need-for-gaganyaan-crew/article67965278.ece |access-date=2024-03-19 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}

{{Main|Vyommitra}}

File:Vyommitra (Space friend), ISRO.jpg|200px]]

On 22 January 2020, ISRO announced Vyommitra, a female-looking robot who will accompany the other astronauts in the mission. ISRO aims not to fly animals onboard experimental missions unlike other nations that have carried out human space flight. Instead, it will fly humanoid robots for a better understanding of what weightlessness and radiation do to the human body during long durations in space.{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-48918280|title=Why is India sending robots into space?|date=25 July 2019|access-date=25 January 2020|language=en}}

Vyommitra is expected to be onboard uncrewed Gaganyaan missions to perform microgravity experiments, monitor module parameters, and support astronauts in crewed missions by simulating functions like a human from the waist up. It does not have legs.{{Cite news|date=24 January 2020|title=ISRO to send humanoid Vyommitra in unmanned Gaganyaan spacecraft ahead of human spaceflight|work=The Economic Times|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/science/isro-to-send-humanoid-vyommitra-in-unmanned-gaganyaan-spacecraft-ahead-of-human-spaceflight/articleshow/73576959.cms|access-date=29 August 2021}} It is programmed to speak Hindi and English and perform multiple tasks.{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/1st-glimpse-of-vyommitra-the-humanoid-for-gaganyaan-its-a-she/articleshow/73513989.cms|title=Gaganyaan mission: First glimpse of 'Vyommitra', the humanoid for Gaganyaan; it's a 'She' |date=22 January 2020|first=Chethan |last=Kumar|website=The Times of India|language=en|access-date=22 January 2020}}{{Cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/science/isro-will-look-at-manned-mission-to-moon-someday-but-not-right-now-k-sivan-6229655/|title=ISRO's manned mission to Moon will happen, but not right now: K Sivan|date=22 January 2020|website=The Indian Express|language=en-US|access-date=22 January 2020}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.loksatta.com/desh-videsh-news/vyommitra-the-humanoid-for-isros-mission-gaganyaan-dmp-82-2066411/|title='व्योममित्रा'ची पहिली झलक! भारताकडून 'ती' पहिल्यांदा जाणार अवकाशात|date=22 January 2020|website=Loksatta|language=mr-IN|access-date=22 January 2020}}{{Cite web |date=22 January 2020 |title=ISRO's prototype humanoid for Gaganyaan mission is Vyom Mitra which will go to space before astronauts |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/technology-science/article/isro-s-prototype-humanoid-for-gaganyaan-mission-is-vyom-mitra-which-will-go-to-space-before-astronauts/543450 |access-date=22 January 2020 |website=Times Now News |language=en}}

It can detect and give out warnings if environmental changes within the cabin get uncomfortable to astronauts and change the air condition. It can autonomously complete tasks and follow new commands.{{cite web|last=Dwarakanath|first=Nagarjun|date=22 January 2020 |title=Gaganyaan mission: Meet Vyommitra, the talking human robot that Isro will send to space|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/science/story/gaganyaan-vyommitra-talking-humanoid-isro-space-1639077-2020-01-22 |access-date=22 January 2020|newspaper=India Today}}

{{Main|Crew Module Atmospheric Re-entry Experiment}}

File:CARE Module splashdown at Bay of Bengal (1).jpg at Bay of Bengal.]]

On 13 February 2014, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited handed over the first boilerplate prototype of Crew Module structural assembly to ISRO for Crew Module Atmospheric Re-entry Experiment (CARE).{{cite web|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/science/human-space-flight-prog-hal-hands-over-crew-module-assembly-to-isro/article23155079.ece|title=Human space flight prog: HAL hands over crew module assembly to ISRO|website=@businessline|date=13 February 2014 }} ISRO's Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre would equip the Crew Module with systems necessary for life support, navigation, guidance and control systems.{{cite web |date=18 December 2014 |title=Crew module Atmospheric Re-entry Experiment (CARE) |url=https://www.isro.gov.in/Spacecraft/crew-module-atmospheric-re-entry-experiment-care |website=ISRO |access-date=19 September 2022 |archive-date=16 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220816084003/https://www.isro.gov.in/Spacecraft/crew-module-atmospheric-re-entry-experiment-care |url-status=dead }} The mission's objectives were to comprehend the reentry aerodynamics and test the effectiveness of the deceleration system by demonstrating the separation of the apex cover and the deployment of the parachute in a cluster configuration.{{cite web |title=LVM3-X/CARE Mission |url=https://www.isro.gov.in/media_isro/pdf/LVM3-brochure.pdf |access-date=24 September 2024 |website=Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre |publisher=ISRO}}

ISRO undertook an uncrewed test launch of the vehicle aboard the LVM3-X, for an experimental sub-orbital flight on 18 December 2014. The crew module separated from the rocket at an altitude of 126 km. On-board motors controlled and reduced the speed of the module until an altitude of {{cvt|80|km}}. Thrusters were shut off at that altitude and atmospheric drag further reduced speed of the capsule.

The module's heat shield was expected to experience temperature in excess of {{cvt|1600|C}}. Parachutes were deployed at an altitude of {{cvt|15|km}} to slow down the module, which performed a splashdown in the Bay of Bengal near Andaman and Nicobar Islands.[https://archive.today/20141218090307/http://isro.org/pressrelease/scripts/pressreleasein.aspx?Dec18_2014 First Experimental Flight of India's Next Generation Launch Vehicle GSLV Mk-III Successful] – ISRO Press Release – 18 December 2014{{cite web|url=https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/india-successfully-launches-heaviest-rocket-gslv-mk-iii-1480025|title=India successfully launches its heaviest rocket GSLV-Mk III |date=18 December 2014|publisher=International Business Times UK}}

This flight was used to test orbital injection, separation and re-entry procedures and systems of the Crew Capsule. Also tested were the capsule separation, heat shields and aerobraking systems, parachute deployment, retro-firing, splashdown, flotation systems, and procedures to recover the Crew Capsule from the Bay of Bengal.{{Cite news |date=18 December 2014 |title=GSLV Mark III takes to the skies in test flight |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/India-successfully-test-fires-GSLV-Mark-III-its-heaviest-rocket/article60321347.ece |access-date=26 November 2022 |issn=0971-751X}}{{Cite news |date=18 December 2014 |title=India launches largest rocket and unmanned capsule |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-30527602 |access-date=26 November 2022}} Inflight launch abort and parachute tests were expected to be conducted by the end of 2019.{{cite web|title=Episode 90 – An update on ISRO's activities with S. Somanath and R. Umamaheshwaran|url=https://astrotalkuk.org/episode-90-an-update-on-isros-activities-with-s-somanath-and-r-umamaheshwaran/|date=24 October 2019|access-date=30 October 2019|publisher=Astro talk UK}}

{{Main|ISRO Pad Abort Test}}

The Indian Space Research Organisation's Pad Abort Test was conducted successfully on 5 July 2018.{{cite web |date=4 July 2018 |title=ISRO conducts pad abort test for Indian human space program |url=https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2018/07/isro-pad-abort-test-indian-human-program/ |access-date=5 July 2018 |website=NASASpaceFlight.com}} A Pad Abort Test is a trial run for the spacecraft's launch abort system (sometimes called a launch escape system). This system is designed to quickly get the crew and spacecraft away from the rocket in the event of a potential failure. The technology developed is expected to be applied to the first Indian crewed spacecraft Gaganyaan, scheduled to be launched no earlier than 2024.{{Cite news |date=2022-06-30 |title=Gaganyaan mission can't happen this year or next year, focus fully on safety aspects: Isro chief |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/gaganyaan-mission-cant-happen-this-year-or-next-year-focus-fully-on-safety-aspects-isro-chief/articleshow/92579979.cms |access-date=2023-05-21 |issn=0971-8257}}

The countdown for the test started at 2:00 am (IST) on 5 July 2018. At 7:00 am (IST) The Crew Escape System with crew module successfully lifted-off from Satish Dhawan Space Centre. The crew module was accelerated to 10 g{{Citation|last1=Baluragi|first1=Hanamantray|title=Indian Space Program: Evolution, Dimensions, and Initiatives|date=2020|url=http://link.springer.com/10.1007/978-3-030-22786-9_38-2|work=Handbook of Space Security|pages=1–19|place=Cham|publisher=Springer International Publishing|language=en|doi=10.1007/978-3-030-22786-9_38-2|isbn=978-3-030-22786-9|access-date=2020-07-04|last2=Suresh|first2=Byrana Nagappa|s2cid=216447640 |url-access=subscription}} and reached a highest altitude of {{convert|2.75|km|mi|2|abbr=on}}, it later safely parachuted down and floated in the Bay of Bengal {{convert|2.9|km|mi|2|abbr=on}} away from its launch site. It was carried skyward using seven solid-fueled rocket motors keeping within the safe g-force limits. Later recovery boats were sent to recover the crew module. The total duration of the test mission was 259 seconds. The test launch process was recorded by around 300 sensors.{{Cite news|title=ISRO's first 'pad abort' test, critical for future human space mission, successful|url=https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/isros-first-pad-abort-test-successful/article24336860.ece}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.isro.gov.in/hi/update/05-jul-2018/successful-flight-testing-of-crew-escape-system-technology-demonstrator|title=SUCCESSFUL FLIGHT TESTING OF CREW ESCAPE SYSTEM – TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATOR – ISRO|website=www.isro.gov.in|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180705234350/https://www.isro.gov.in/hi/update/05-jul-2018/successful-flight-testing-of-crew-escape-system-technology-demonstrator|archive-date=5 Jul 2018|url-status=|access-date=2018-07-05}} Main objectives of test were nominal 20 second ascent and 200 seconds of descent, not including the splashdown.{{Cite web|url=http://www.sac.gov.in/SacSliderI_Repository/Vyom/English/585/SSAA_HSP-PAT-CES-FLASH_2July2018.pdf|title=ISRO's Human Space Programme: Pad Abort Test (PAT) on 5th July, 2018 Early Morning|last=|first=|date=4 July 2018|website=|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180704173738/http://www.sac.gov.in/SacSliderI_Repository/Vyom/English/585/SSAA_HSP-PAT-CES-FLASH_2July2018.pdf|archive-date=4 July 2018|access-date=}} Chute detachment was a scheduled event occurring around 259.4 seconds after launch as intended.{{Cite web|url=https://astrotalkuk.org/episode-80-s-somnat-director-of-vikram-sarabhai-space-centre/|title=Episode 80 – S Somnath Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre|date=2018-11-30|website=AstrotalkUK|language=en-GB|access-date=2020-01-12}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.isro.gov.in/flight-test-of-crew-escape-system-technology-demonstrator-lift-of-video|title=Flight test of crew escape system – Technology Demonstrator Lift of video – ISRO|website=www.isro.gov.in|access-date=2020-01-12|archive-date=26 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210226071754/https://www.isro.gov.in/flight-test-of-crew-escape-system-technology-demonstrator-lift-of-video|url-status=dead}}

{{Main|Test Vehicle Abort Mission-1}}

Test Vehicle Abort Mission-1{{Cite web |title=First Crew Module for Gaganyaan test flight takes shape |url=https://www.isro.gov.in/First_Crew_Module_Gaganyaan_test_flight_TV_D1.html |access-date=2023-10-08 |website=www.isro.gov.in}} (TV-D1{{Cite news |title=First Gaganyaan uncrewed module to be injected in 170x408km orbit; indicates human spaceflight profile |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/first-gaganyaan-uncrewed-module-to-be-injected-in-170x408km-orbit-indicates-human-spaceflight-profile/articleshow/91159842.cms |first=Chethan |last=Kumar |journal=Times of India |date=2022-04-28 |ref={{harvid|Times of India, 28 April|2022}}}}) was a high altitude abort test held on 21 October 2023 at around 10:00 a.m IST.TV-D1 Flight Test: ISRO on X: https://x.com/isro/status/1714208678675628360?s=20 The rocket launch was the second attempt of the day, with the initial try halted just five seconds before the scheduled time. The primary purpose of the test was to ensure the crew's ability to safely exit the rocket in the event of a malfunction. Originally slated for 8:00 local time, the launch was postponed for 45 minutes due to weather-related concerns. The mission aimed to test the CES's separation from the rocket, ability to maintain a trajectory leading to a safe distance, and eventual parachute deployment.{{Cite news |date=2023-10-20 |title=Gaganyaan: India launches test flight ahead of sending crew into space |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67166633 |access-date=2023-10-22}}

During TV-D1 mission, the crew module experience an unexpected upended orientation while being recovered by Indian Navy from Bay of Bengal. In order to mitigate the problem and improve safety, ISRO is going to test an "uprighting system" that resembles gaseous balloons and works similarly to airbags in cars to keep the crew module from toppling over in the event of lateral wind and sea wave disturbances following splashdown. Redundancy is built into the system to guard against failure. TV-D2 is scheduled to launch in Q1 2024. The crew escape mechanism will use low and high altitude escape motors, while the crew module control systems will mimic the crew seat, suspension, and uprighting systems.{{Cite web |last=Johnson |first=T A |date=2023-11-13 |title=To keep Gaganyaan crew module upright after splashdown, ISRO plans tests in 2024 |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/science/to-keep-gaganyaan-crew-module-upright-after-splashdown-isro-plans-tests-in-2024-9024211/ |access-date=2023-11-14 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}

The Gaganyaan module is intended to land in the Arabian Sea, where Indian agencies are expected to be stationed in order to rescue both the crew and the module. Nonetheless, the space agency has selected 48 backup locations in international waters in case the primary plan is altered. Two landing sites in Indian waters, one in the Arabian Sea and the other in the Bay of Bengal, were initially chosen by ISRO. But the landing spot in the Arabian Sea was decided upon taking into account the choppy seas and unpredictability of the Bay of Bengal.{{Cite web |last=Pillai |first=Soumya |date=2024-03-05 |title=Isro identifies 48 backup points for safe return of Gaganyaan astronauts |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/isro-identifies-48-backup-points-forsafe-return-of-gaganyaan-astronauts-101709579928247.html |access-date=2024-03-05 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Jain |first=Alka |date=2024-03-05 |title=How Gaganyaan astronauts can return safely during return mission? Explained |url=https://www.livemint.com/science/news/how-gaganyaan-astronauts-can-return-safely-during-return-mission-explained-11709604343676.html |access-date=2024-03-05 |website=mint |language=en}}

On November 20, 2024, ISRO and the Australian Space Agency (ASA) signed an Implementing Arrangement outlining their collaboration on crew and crew module recovery for the Gaganyaan.{{Cite web |title=ISRO & ASA sign Implementing Arrangement for Gaganyaan |url=https://www.isro.gov.in/ISRO_ASA_sign_Gaganyaan.html |access-date=2024-11-22 |website=www.isro.gov.in}} International partners will receive standard operating procedures (SOPs) from ISRO regarding the prevention of propellant contamination, the prevention of explosions, how to access crew in the event that doors cannot be opened, and other related matters.{{Cite news |last=Kumar |first=Chethan |date=2024-11-22 |title=Gaganyaan: Isro, Aus agency ink pact for crew recovery |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/gaganyaan-isro-aus-agency-ink-pact-for-crew-recovery/articleshow/115568957.cms |access-date=2024-11-22 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}} Jarrod Powell, General Manager, Space Capability Branch, representing ASA in Canberra, and D.K. Singh, Director, Human Space Flight Centre, representing ISRO in Bengaluru, signed the Implementing Arrangement.{{Cite news |last= |first= |date=2024-11-21 |title=ISRO signs Implementation Agreement with Australian Space Agency for Gaganyaan mission |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/isro-signs-implementing-agreement-with-australian-space-agency-for-gaganyaan-mission/article68892773.ece |access-date=2024-11-22 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}} Based on its experience in Antarctic operations and remote medicine, Australia is expected to share its knowledge of applied space medicine and life sciences.{{Cite web |date=2024-11-20 |title=Australia to help Isro in recovering Gaganyaan astronauts after splashdown |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/science/gaganyaan-mission/story/australia-to-help-isro-in-recovering-gaganyaan-astronauts-after-splashdown-2636469-2024-11-20 |access-date=2024-11-22 |website=India Today |language=en}} As part of a backup plan for the ascent phase that ends close to Australian waters, Australia will collaborate with India to guarantee assistance for crew search and rescue as well as crew module recovery.{{Cite news |date=2024-11-21 |title=Isro signs agreement with Australian space agency for Gaganyaan mission |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/isro-signs-agreement-with-australian-space-agency-for-gaganyaan-mission/articleshow/115525406.cms |access-date=2024-11-22 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}

Using a mass and shape simulated crew module mock-up, ISRO and the Indian Navy's Eastern Naval Command successfully completed the well deck trials on December 6, 2024.{{Cite news |last=Kumar |first=Chethan |date=2024-12-10 |title=Indian Navy, ISRO conduct critical Gaganyaan mission recovery trials |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/indian-navy-and-isro-successfully-conduct-gaganyaan-mission-recovery-trials/articleshow/116168233.cms |access-date=2024-12-16 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}{{Cite web |last=Madanapalle |first=Aditya |date=2024-12-10 |title=ISRO, Indian Navy conduct welldeck recovery trials for Gaganyaan missions |url=https://www.news9live.com/science/isro-indian-navy-conduct-welldeck-recovery-trials-for-gaganyaan-missions-2770311 |access-date=2024-12-16 |website=News9live |language=en-US}} A ship's well deck was filled with water so that recovered spacecraft, boats, and landing vehicles could be brought inside for docking. The entire sequence of operations, which included attaching the recovery buoy, towing, entering the well deck, placing the crew module on ground fittings, and draining the well deck, was validated. In order to improve the SOPs for recovery operations under both nominal and off-nominal conditions, a number of recovery trials are being conducted.{{Cite news |last= |first= |date=2024-12-10 |title=ISRO and Indian Navy carry out recovery trials for Gaganyaan mission |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/isro-and-indian-navy-carry-out-recovery-trials-for-gaganyaan-mission/article68968639.ece |access-date=2024-12-16 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}{{Cite web |title=Indian Navy and ISRO gear up for Welldeck Recovery for Gaganyaan |url=https://www.isro.gov.in/Indian_Navy_ISRO_WelldeckRecovery_Gaganyaan.html |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20241212221419/https://www.isro.gov.in/Indian_Navy_ISRO_WelldeckRecovery_Gaganyaan.html |archive-date=2024-12-12 |access-date=2024-12-16 |website=www.isro.gov.in |language=en}}

{{Main|Docking and berthing of spacecraft}}

ISRO tested space docking capabilities during SpaDeX mission in early 2025. The technology will also be employed on the Chandrayaan-4 and future missions to Gaganyaan and Indian Orbital Space Station. A project report that includes all the information, a study and internal evaluation, and a cost estimate has been prepared and is about to be approved by the government.{{Cite web |last=Das |first=Shouvik |date=26 June 2024 |title=Indian Space Station, Chandrayaan-4 plans ready for govt approval: Isro chairman |url=https://www.livemint.com/industry/indian-space-station-chandrayaan-4-plans-ready-for-govt-approval-isro-chairman-11719410912746.html |access-date=3 July 2024 |website=mint}}

{{Portal|India|Rocketry|Spaceflight}}

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• Human Space Flight Centre
• Indian Orbital Space Station
• Indian Human Spaceflight Programme

{{Reflist}}

{{Commons category|Gaganyaan}}

• {{official website|http://www.isro.gov.in }}
• {{cite web |url = http://www.dos.gov.in |title = Official website of the Department of Space of the Government of India |publisher=dos.gov.in}}

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{{Indian spacecraft}}

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Category:Gaganyaan

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