The Indian Space Research Organisation chairman, Dr. S. Somanath, has expressed that it would be a “very proud” moment for the entire nation if Prime Minister Narendra Modi could fly to space. However, he emphasized that this will only be considered once the much-anticipated Gaganyaan Mission is “ready, proven, and qualified” for such a prestigious task.

In an exclusive interview with NDTV, Dr. Somanath highlighted that ISRO is currently at a “critical juncture” with the Gaganyaan mission, with three significant missions scheduled for this year. He acknowledged that while it would be an honor to send the Prime Minister to space, the mission’s success relies heavily on the availability of highly trained astronauts and the rigorous preparation required for such a complex operation.

The Gaganyaan Mission, named after the Sanskrit words “gagana” (celestial) and “yana” (craft, vehicle), is a pivotal step in India’s human spaceflight program. This mission focus on launching a crew of up to three members into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Four test pilots from the Indian Air Force—Prashanth Nair, Angad Prathap, Ajit Krishnan, and Shubhanshu Shukla—have already been chosen for the mission, marking a significant milestone in India’s space exploration journey.

Dr. Somanath underscored that any candidate, including VIPs, cannot be considered for the mission at this moment due to the highly skilled and trained nature of the operation. The preparation for such missions spans many years and months, requiring an exceptional level of expertise and readiness.

When asked if he would accommodate Prime Minister Modi if he decided to go to space, Dr. Somanath responded affirmatively but noted that the Prime Minister has other crucial responsibilities. He mentioned, “We aim to develop human spaceflight capability, and we are currently working towards achieving that goal.”

Dr. Somanath also emphasized that if a Head of State were to fly to the International Space Station or any space station, it should be on an Indian vehicle launched from Indian soil. This feeling underscores the pride and national importance of the Gaganyaan Mission. 

The first test flight for the Gaganyaan Mission is planned for the end of next year, depending on the progress made. Dr. Somanath remains optimistic yet cautious, indicating that the timeline depends on various developmental milestones.

What is Gaganyaan?

Gaganyaan is an Indian crewed orbital spacecraft intended to serve as the foundation of the nation’s Human Spaceflight Programme. The spacecraft is intended to carry three astronauts into orbit at an altitude of 400 km for up to seven days. The mission will utilize ISRO’s HLVM3 rocket and is now expected to launch by 2025, following delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other safety concerns.

The crew module, manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), underwent its first uncrewed experimental flight on December 18, 2014. The design of the crew module was completed by May 2019. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is supplying essential human-centric systems and technologies, including space-grade food, crew healthcare, and emergency systems.

Gaganyaan Crew Module

The Gaganyaan crew module is a fully autonomous spacecraft weighing 5.3 tons, designed to transport a three-member crew and ensure their safe return to Earth. It is equipped with redundant parachutes, life support systems, emergency mission abort capabilities, and a Crew Escape System (CES).

Despite challenges in obtaining the Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) from other countries, ISRO has committed to developing this technology domestically. The crew module is now in the production stage, with plans to include International Docking System Standard (IDSS) compatibility for future missions to the International Space Station (ISS) and the proposed Bharatiya Antariksha Station.

Service Module

The 2.9-ton service module, powered by liquid propellant engines, will perform orbit-raising maneuvers to reach the intended 400 km LEO. The unified bipropellant system will utilize MON-3 and Monomethylhydrazine as oxidizer and fuel, respectively.

Conclusion

The Gaganyaan Mission represents a significant leap for India’s space exploration capabilities. With meticulous preparation and rigorous testing, ISRO is on the path to making this mission a success, potentially culminating in the historic moment of sending an Indian Prime Minister to space. The nation waits with bated breath for this milestone achievement, which promises to elevate India’s status in global space exploration.