Gaganyaan: LPSC Delivers Crew Module’s Liquid Propulsion System

January 23, 2025

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is advancing its Gaganyaan project, which aims to establish human spaceflight capabilities. As of January 22, 2025, the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) has successfully integrated the Crew Module’s liquid propulsion system and dispatched it for the first uncrewed mission, Gaganyaan (G1). This mission is a critical step towards sending a crew of three astronauts into a 400 km orbit for a three-day mission.

About Gaganyaan Project

The Gaganyaan project is India’s ambitious initiative to demonstrate human spaceflight capabilities.
It involves launching a crewed spacecraft into low Earth orbit and returning it safely.
The mission plans to develop essential technologies, including a human-rated launch vehicle and life support systems.

Crew Module and Propulsion System

The Crew Module Propulsion System (CMPS) is a bi-propellant Reaction Control System (RCS) designed for precise manoeuvring of the spacecraft.
It utilises 12 thrusters, each providing 100 Newtons of thrust, to control the module’s pitch, yaw, and roll during descent and re-entry.
This system ensures stability until the parachute system deploys.

Integration and Testing Phases

Following its dispatch, the Crew Module will undergo further integration at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC). This includes assembling avionics packages and conducting extensive checks. The module will later be sent to the U R Rao Satellite Centre for the final integration of the Orbital Module.

Precursor Missions and Safety Measures

Before the crewed mission, ISRO plans several precursor missions to test and validate technologies. These include the Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT) and Pad Abort Test (PAT). Safety and reliability will be proven through unmanned missions, ensuring all systems are robust before human involvement.

Human Rated Launch Vehicle – HLVM3

The Human Rated LVM3 (HLVM3) rocket will serve as the launch vehicle for Gaganyaan. It features a solid, liquid, and cryogenic stage, all modified for human rating. The HLVM3 includes a Crew Escape System (CES) designed to safely detach the Crew Module in emergencies during launch or ascent.

Orbital Module Composition

The Orbital Module (OM) consists of the Crew Module (CM) and Service Module (SM).
The CM provides a habitable environment with life support and avionics systems. It features a double-walled construction for safety during re-entry.
The SM supports the CM in orbit, housing propulsion and power systems.

Development of New Technologies

Ensuring human safety is paramount in the Gaganyaan mission. ISRO is developing advanced engineering and human-centric technologies to support this goal. These include life support systems and emergency protocols to protect astronauts during their mission.

Astronaut Training Initiatives

An Astronaut Training Facility in Bengaluru has been established to prepare selected astronauts. Training modules encompass classroom instruction, physical fitness, simulator use, and survival training. This comprehensive programme ensures astronauts are well-prepared for the rigours of space travel.

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