ISRO’s PSLV-C62 launch trouble: Gaganyaan G1 launch likely delayed

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Concerns that the two consecutive failures of PSLV rockets are likely to delay ISRO's flagship mission Gaganyaan. The unmanned Gaganyaan G1 launch, which was scheduled to be conducted next month ahead of the Gaganyaan launch, is likely to be postponed. ISRO has withdrawn its request to the Defence Ministry for ground station support for the launch this month.

Two unmanned Gaganyaan launches were planned this year and a manned mission next year. An internal investigation into the causes of the PSLV failure and data analysis tests are currently being conducted. It is learnt that the process for Gaganyaan will resume only after this is completed. Since it is a mission to send a human into space, the final date will be decided only after ensuring that technical perfection is achieved.

The PSLV-C62 rocket's mission to launch DRDO's research satellite and 15 other satellites on January 12 had failed. The launch on May 18 last year also failed in a similar manner.

Gaganyaan is a project to send two to four Indian astronauts into space using Indian technology, orbit the Earth for two days, and return them safely to Earth. Initially, the launch was planned for 2022. It was delayed due to issues including COVID and technological development.

Project 90% Complete

ISRO sources indicate that the work of Gaganyaan is 90% complete. These include the ones mentioned below. Training for astronauts has also been completed.

1. Human-rated rockets that are safe enough for humans to fly

2. Special food, clothing and equipment for astronauts

3. Umbrella-like parachute system to reduce the speed of the capsule during landing

4. Orbital module including a space capsule that provides ventilation, temperature and safety

5. Environmental control and safety systems that keep the indoor air clean, oxygen-rich and safe from accidents

6. Crew escape system to quickly evacuate the tourists in case of any problem with the rocket