The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) completed another major milestone in its Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission by successfully testing the crew module’s main parachutes at the Babina Field Firing Range in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh. The trial was part of the ongoing Integrated Main Parachute Airdrop Tests (IMAT), which aimed to validate the parachute system for the upcoming mission.
The crew module’s parachute system includes ten parachutes of four different varieties. The descent sequence starts with two apex cover separation parachutes, followed by two drogue parachutes to stabilise the module. Once released, three pilot parachutes deploy three main parachutes, slowing the module and allowing it to land safely. Even two of the primary parachutes are sufficient to ensure a secure touchdown.
The test simulated one of the most difficult conditions—delayed separation between two main parachutes—to evaluate load distribution and structural performance. A dummy mass resembling the crew module was dropped from an altitude of 2.5 km by an Indian Air Force IL-76 aircraft.
The procedure was accomplished successfully, resulting in a stable descent and smooth landing. This achievement is a significant step towards validating the parachute system, with contributions from VSSC, ADRDE, DRDO, the Indian Air Force, and the Indian Army.
