India’s ambitious Gaganyaan programme, the nation’s first human spaceflight mission, is now scheduled for launch in the first quarter of 2027. Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, confirmed the timeline while outlining key developments and milestones achieved so far.
Milestones Achieved: Test Missions Lay the Groundwork
Dr. Singh stated that recent test missions have created a strong base for the Gaganyaan mission’s next phases. The successful completion of the TV-D1 mission and India’s first uncrewed Test Vehicle Abort Mission earlier in the year have been crucial steps. These missions demonstrated key capabilities required for future manned flights.
Upcoming Missions and Timeline
The second Test Vehicle mission (TV-D2) is scheduled for 2025. This will be followed by a series of uncrewed orbital flights, designed to test all systems under spaceflight conditions. The first of these uncrewed orbital flights is still on track to launch by the end of 2025.
Human-Rated LVM3 and Space Hardware in Final Testing
India’s human-rated LVM3 launch vehicle, along with the Crew Module, Crew Escape System, and Service Module, are in the final stages of testing and integration. These critical components are essential for ensuring the safety and success of the human spaceflight mission.
Recovery Trials with Indian Navy Underway
Recovery trials for astronaut retrieval after splashdown are being conducted in collaboration with the Indian Navy. Additional sea recovery simulations are planned to further validate systems and procedures for post-mission recovery operations.
Astronaut Training in Progress
Four Indian Air Force pilots, who were earlier trained in Russia, are undergoing further mission-specific training in India. These astronauts are currently being evaluated for psychological fitness, physical health, and mission readiness at a dedicated astronaut training facility.
Economic Viability and Technological Gains
Dr. Singh highlighted that India’s expenditure on the Gaganyaan mission is significantly lower compared to similar international human spaceflight missions. Despite the modest budget, the mission has already delivered high returns in terms of technological innovation and economic activity.
Boost to Indian Industry and Research
The Gaganyaan project has catalyzed growth in several high-tech domains, including robotics, electronics, advanced materials, and medical technology. It has also strengthened collaboration between ISRO and private sector enterprises, making Gaganyaan a truly national mission.
Vision Beyond 2027: Towards Indian Space Station and Lunar Mission
ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan emphasized that Gaganyaan is laying the groundwork for future long-duration missions. The programme now includes eight missions to be executed by December 2028. This includes the launch of the first module of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS-1).
By 2035, India aims to establish a fully operational space station in low Earth orbit. Additionally, plans for an Indian crewed lunar mission by 2040 are already in motion as part of the country’s long-term space exploration strategy.
Programme Expansion and Hardware Updates
Since its approval in December 2018, the Gaganyaan mission has undergone several updates to accommodate future needs. This includes the addition of one more uncrewed mission and upgrades in hardware to support the space station initiative.
Conclusion: India’s Leap into Human Spaceflight
Gaganyaan marks a significant leap for India in human space exploration. With test missions, astronaut training, and hardware integration progressing steadily, the mission’s 2027 timeline looks promising. Gaganyaan not only aims to put Indian astronauts into orbit but also cements India’s position among the select few nations capable of independent human spaceflight.