ISRO Completes Gaganyaan Module Separation Tests

The Indian Space Research Organisation has completed tests simulating separation of the Gaganyaan Crew Module from its Service Module, a system needed before the spacecraft’s crew module returns to Earth. ISRO said the tests provide confidence in the system ahead of the first uncrewed Gaganyaan G1 mission, targeted for launch in 2026. The tests took place at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre in Thiruvananthapuram. ISRO said the setup replicated the combined Crew Module-Service Module assembly and used extensive instrumentation. The trials simulated the separation sequence, including severing several umbilical connections that provide electrical and fluid servicing between the modules. The modules remain connected from launch through the orbital phase. Before the crew module begins reentry into Earth’s atmosphere, it must detach from the service module through a sequence involving pyrotechnic devices and jettisoning systems. ISRO said the trials assessed the overall separation system and demonstrated robustness and shock survivability in several crew module systems. These included avionics, inertial navigation systems, thermal protection for the aft and conical heat shields, and...