Before it sends the actual human spaceflight mission under the Gaganyaan programme, the ISRO has been conducting simulation missions — known as ‘analog’ experiments — during which selected astronauts are spending several days in confined spacecraft-like conditions. Apart from getting the astronauts accustomed to space-like conditions, these experiments are meant to help ISRO develop protocols for processes such as communication and resource management for a human space mission. The only thing missing in these Gaganyaan Analog Experiments, or Gyanex, is the absence of gravity. “The only thing which is unlike an actual human spaceflight mission is the presence of gravity. It is extremely difficult to simulate a microgravity environment on Earth. All the other procedures and protocols have to be followed during this period,” said an official from the space department. During the Gyanex missions, the astronaut designates, and others, live in a confined crew module and space station, carrying out all activities that the astronauts would have to do in space, including following the routine and conducting scientific experiments. The participants have access to only things that would be available on the space station or crew module. And, during this period, they eat the food developed by DRDO. These experiments are being conducted in a static mock-up simulator, a model of the spacecraft, in Bangalore. The first in the series of these experiments, Gyanex-1, was conducted in July, during which Group Captain Angad Pratap along with two others, remained confined in the simulator for 10 days. The crew members conducted 11 science experiments during this period. “Several parameters on the activities and the impact of staying in the confined space on the crew members were recorded during this period. There were a lot of interesting findings that will guide us in making the protocols,” said another official. “There will be a series of such Gyanex experiments before we send a crewed mission,” said the second official. The first human spaceflight mission under Gaganyaan is slated for 2027.
