ISRO targets December for first test flight of Gaganyaan rocket
India’s ambitious human space mission, Gaganyaan, is taking a crucial step forward with the first test flight of its human-rated rocket scheduled for December 2024. ISRO Chairman S. Somnath announced the timeline during an interaction with the media after the successful launch of the SSLV-D3 mission.
Gaganyaan Rocket Progress
Stage integration: The three stages of the Gaganyaan rocket (code-named G1) have arrived at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, and integration of the crew module is underway at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) in Thiruvananthapuram.
Targeted launch: All systems for the G1 rocket are expected to reach the launch centre by November, while the test flight is targeted for December.
“The three stages of the Gaganyaan rocket have arrived at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre. Integration of the crew module is underway at the VSSC,” Dr. Somnath said. SSLV success and technology transfer
The announcement was made soon after the successful launch of ISRO’s Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), which successfully placed the EOS-08 and SR-0 satellites in orbit. This was the third and final developmental flight of SSLV, paving the way for its commercial production.
“We can announce that the process of SSLV development is complete. We are in the process of transferring SSLV technology to industries,” Dr Somnath said.
Empowering the private sector
ISRO is committed to transfer SSLV technology to private companies, not only providing blueprints but also sharing knowledge and expertise through practical training.
“We will transfer knowledge, not just drawings. Industry people will come to ISRO to learn how to build rockets,” Dr Somnath said.
Selection process and timeline
The selection process for the industry partner or consortium is currently underway. ISRO estimates that it will take about two years for the selected entity to learn the technology and start producing SSLVs. Meanwhile, NewSpace India Limited will provide funding for the production of the rocket.
Dr Somnath also spoke on the construction of a second launch pad at Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu. The construction work is underway and the facility is expected to become operational in two years.
