Gaganyaan: ISRO conducts simulation missions

These experiments are being conducted in a static mock-up simulator, a model of the spacecraft, in Bangalore

Astronauts spend time in spacecraft-like conditions

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.

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“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.

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“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.

Anonna Dutt

Anonna Dutt is a Principal Correspondent who writes primarily on health at the Indian Express. She reports on myriad topics ranging from the growing burden of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension to the problems with pervasive infectious conditions. She reported on the government’s management of the Covid-19 pandemic and closely followed the vaccination programme. Her stories have resulted in the city government investing in high-end tests for the poor and acknowledging errors in their official reports. Dutt also takes a keen interest in the country’s space programme and has written on key missions like Chandrayaan 2 and 3, Aditya L1, and Gaganyaan. She was among the first batch of eleven media fellows with RBM Partnership to End Malaria. She was also selected to participate in the short-term programme on early childhood reporting at Columbia University’s Dart Centre. Dutt has a Bachelor’s Degree from the Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication, Pune and a PG Diploma from the Asian College of Journalism, Chennai. She started her reporting career with the Hindustan Times. When not at work, she tries to appease the Duolingo owl with her French skills and sometimes takes to the dance floor. ... Read More

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Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)