Initial recovery trials for Crew Module were carried out on February 7, 2023, by ISRO and the Indian Navy in the Water Survival Test Facility (WSTF) of the Indian Navy at Kochi. The trials were a preparation for the crew module recovery operations for the Gaganyaan mission.
- A Crew Module Recovery Model was used to simulate the mass, center of gravity, outer dimensions, and externals of the actual Crew Module.
- Standard Operating Procedures (SoP) for recovery of Crew and Crew Module were finalized as part of the trials.
- The recovery trials will be conducted in a closed pool, harbor, and open sea.
- The WSTF provides realistic training for aircrew escape under varied conditions and crash scenarios and simulates different sea state, environmental and day/night conditions.
- The trials validate the SoP, train recovery teams and flight crew, and provide valuable inputs for the utilization of recovery accessories.
- Feedback from the recovery team helps improve the recovery operations SoP and finalize the training plan.
Gaganyaan mission
Gaganyaan project envisages demonstration of human spaceflight capability by launching crew of 3 members to an orbit of 400 km for a 3 days mission and bring them back safely to earth, by landing in Indian sea waters.
TThe mission is being led by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and is a significant step towards India’s goal of becoming a major player in the global space industry.
LVM3 rocket – The well proven and reliable heavy lift launcher of ISRO, is identified as the launch vehicle for Gaganyaan mission.
