The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) took a historic step today, February 27, 2024, by announcing the names of the astronauts chosen for the much-anticipated Gaganyaan mission. This ambitious project marks India’s first human spaceflight endeavour, and selecting these individuals represents a significant milestone in the nation’s spacefaring journey.

Meet the Crew:

• Group Captain Prashanth Balakrishnan Nair
• Group Captain Ajit Krishnan
• Group Captain Angad Prathap
• Wing Commander Subhanshu Shukla

A Day of National Pride:

The announcement of the astronaut selection has resonated throughout India, sparking widespread excitement and national pride. The nation watches with anticipation as these brave individuals undergo rigorous training to prepare for their historic mission.

A Look Ahead:

With the crew now revealed, the focus shifts towards launching the Gaganyaan mission, slated for sometime in 2025. The success of this mission will not only be a testament to India’s scientific and technological prowess. Still, it will also pave the way for further advancements in the country’s space exploration endeavours.

Technological Milestones and Innovations

The success of the Gaganyaan mission relies on several technological breakthroughs and developments. These include:

Human-Rated LVM3: The LVM3 rocket, a reliable heavy-lift launcher, has been adapted for human spaceflight. Now christened as Human-Rated LVM3 (HLVM3), it has undergone rigorous modifications to meet stringent safety requirements.

Crew Escape System (CES): In case of emergencies during launch or ascent, the HLVM3 is equipped with a Crew Escape System. This system, powered by quick-acting, high burn-rate solid motors, ensures the safe evacuation of the Crew Module.

Orbital Module

Orbital Module (OM): The OM, which orbits Earth, is comprised of the Crew Module (CM) and the Service Module (SM). The CM provides a habitable space for the crew, with an Earth-like environment. It is designed with a double-walled construction for enhanced thermal protection during re-entry.

New Technologies for Human Safety: Several new engineering and human-centric systems are being developed to prioritize crew safety, ensuring a successful and safe mission.

Training the Gaganyaan Crew

The Astronaut Training Facility in Bengaluru is instrumental in preparing the Gaganyaan crew for their mission. Training includes:

Astronaut Training Facility

• Classroom Sessions: Academic courses and flight system training.
  Physical Fitness: Training to maintain peak physical condition.
• Simulator Training: Simulated flight training to familiarize the crew with microgravity and flight procedures.
• Flight Suit Training: Mastering flight suits and equipment.
• Aero-Medical and Recovery Training: Understanding aero-medical procedures, recovery, and survival techniques.
• Crew Training Simulators: Practice on simulators for various mission scenarios.
• Aero-Medical Training and Yoga: Incorporating aero-medical training and yoga for overall well-being.