What is TV-D1?

The first test vehicle demonstration (TV-D1) under the Gaganyaan mission will be conducted on May 2023. It aims to test the abort process mid-air, the parachute system, and the recovery of crew members after splashdown. The demonstration involves using single liquid propellant-based rocket stage to carry the crew module to a sub-orbital level. This success of this demonstration will bring Gaganyaan mission an inch closer to the goal of sending humans to space.

Additional Demonstrations and Crewed Missions

The uncrewed mission will only take place after the success of two such demonstrations. Two more test vehicle demonstrations will follow before the second uncrewed mission, which will carry a pressurized crew module. The first crewed mission has been scheduled for late 2024 or early 2025, but its timeline will depend on the success of these tests.

Gaganyaan Advisory Council’s Recommendation

The Gaganyaan Advisory Council has recommended additional testing for the Crew Escape System and deceleration systems through four abort missions using Test Vehicle (TV) and Integrated Air Drop Tests before proceeding with crewed missions. This was in addition to the two uncrewed missions that were originally planned.

Testing Procedures

The TV-D1 is designed to test the processes for aborting the mission mid-air, the parachute system that will bring the crew module down to sea, and the recovery of crew members from the module after splashdown. The demonstration will use a single liquid propellant-based rocket stage to carry the crew module to sub-orbital level.

Importance of TV-D1

The test vehicle demonstration is an essential step in the Gaganyaan mission’s progress. The TV-D1 aims to test the safety and reliability of the spacecraft and its systems, including the escape mechanism, at a much higher altitude than before. The TV-D1’s success will pave the way for further testing and the eventual crewed mission.

Month: Current Affairs - March, 2023

Category: Science & Technology Current Affairs