Gaganyaan Test Flight Aborted 5 Seconds Before Launch Over “Anomaly”

Written by Sanjay Kumar

Gaganyaan

Spacecraft

• Manufacturers: ISRO, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
• Crew capacity: 3
• Design life: 7 days
• Dimensions: Diameter: 3.5 m (11 ft); Height: 3.58 m (11.7 ft)
• Dry mass: 3,735 kg (8,234 lb)
• Launch mass: 8,200 kg (18,100 lb) (includes service module)
• Maiden launch: Q2 2024 (uncrewed); NET 2025 (crewed)

In a rather unexpected turn of events, the first test for the Gaganyaan human space flight mission was abruptly halted just five seconds before its scheduled Launch. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has yet to provide a detailed explanation for the last-minute decision.

“Engine ignition has not happened in the nominal course due to an anomaly. We have to find out what went wrong. The vehicle is safe, and we will announce the reason after an investigation,” remarked ISRO Chief S Somanath in a statement regarding the incident.

Originally, the Test Vehicle D1 mission was scheduled to take off from the first launch pad at 8 am, but this time was subsequently revised to 8.45 am. However, with a mere five seconds left on the countdown clock, the launch was halted without further details provided. ISRO is expected to announce a new date for the test as they delve into the circumstances that led to the abrupt cancellation.

The Test Vehicle D1 mission serves as a precursor to the Gaganyaan program, which aims to send humans into space for a Low Earth Orbit mission spanning approximately 400 kilometers for a duration of three days before safely returning them to Earth.

The intended focus of this initial test, which could not be carried out today, was to evaluate the efficacy of the crew escape system, designed to swiftly eject astronauts in emergency situations.

Following this aborted test flight, ISRO plans to conduct another test flight that will carry a robot into outer space before proceeding with the final manned mission.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh provided insights into the future of the Gaganyaan program, stating, “Before the ultimate manned ‘Gaganyaan’ mission, there will be a test flight next year, which will carry Vyommitra, the female robot astronaut.”

Gaganyaan, the Indian crewed orbital spacecraft, holds a pivotal role in the Indian Human Spaceflight Programme. The spacecraft is being developed to accommodate three crew members, and a future version is set to include rendezvous and docking capabilities. Despite this initial setback, India remains committed to achieving its ambitious space exploration goals.

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The post Gaganyaan Test Flight Aborted 5 Seconds Before Launch Over “Anomaly” first appeared on Business Connect Magazine.