ISRO's Achievements and Future Plans
As Earth’s 2025 orbit concludes, ISRO reflects on a year of consistent progress. The year witnessed regular satellite launches and significant strides in research labs across different locations in India.
Key Highlights of 2025
- Significant commercial partnerships through NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL).
- Continued focus on frugal engineering and renowned missions like Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan.
- Advancements in missions such as AstroSat and Aditya-L1.
Gaganyaan Mission Preparations
The mission aims to send an Indian astronaut into orbit using an indigenous vehicle, marking a significant milestone in Indian spaceflight.
- Preparation includes seven missions scheduled for 2026 using major launch vehicles including LVM3, PSLV, GSLV Mk II, and SSLV.
- India’s heaviest launcher, LVM3, to place Bluebird 6 satellite into orbit under a commercial agreement with NSIL.
- Focus on demonstrating technological milestones for crew safety.
Key Technological Milestones
- Qualification of LVM3 as human-rated, ensuring it meets safety standards.
- Uncrewed test flights to validate orbital module performance.
- Reliability tests of Crew Escape System (CES) through various abort scenarios.
- Development of Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) to maintain habitable conditions.
Upcoming Uncrewed Missions
- LVM3 to launch first uncrewed Gaganyaan mission carrying humanoid robot Vyommitra.
- Validation of critical mission systems and operational readiness.
Re-entry Trials and Challenges
- Focus on validating thermal protection systems and flawless parachute deployment.
- Ensuring safe deceleration and splashdown in the Bay of Bengal.
Importance of Human Spaceflight Capability
- Only Russia, the US, and China currently have independent human spaceflight capabilities.
- Success of Gaganyaan would place India in an elite group.
- Human spaceflight signals mastery over advanced technologies and boosts global perception.
- Potential tech spin-offs to benefit civilian markets.
- Inspiring a generation towards science and engineering.
