The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), has successfully conducted critical tests on drogue parachutes, a key component for the safe descent of the Gaganyaan crew module from space. The tests were carried out at the Rail Track Rocket Sled (RTRS) facility of the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL) in Chandigarh, marking a crucial step in the development of India’s ambitious human spaceflight mission.
Drogue parachutes play a vital role in stabilizing the Gaganyaan crew module and reducing its velocity to ensure a controlled descent. In the latest test, two drogue parachutes were simultaneously deployed to replicate the maximum angle of attack the crew module will experience during re-entry. These conical ribbon-type parachutes, each with a diameter of 5.8 meters, utilize a single-stage reefing mechanism, which minimizes the canopy area and opening shock, facilitating a smooth deceleration process.
The parachutes are housed within pyro-based devices known as mortars, which eject them into the air upon receiving a deployment command. This advanced deployment system ensures precision and reliability, both of which are crucial for the safe return of astronauts from space.
The Gaganyaan mission, India’s first human spaceflight initiative, is designed to transport astronauts to low Earth orbit and return them safely to Earth. The parachute system is one of the most critical components of this mission, ensuring a safe and controlled landing. The deployment sequence is meticulously planned, beginning with two apex cover separation parachutes, followed by the deployment of two drogue parachutes for stabilization. Once the drogue parachutes complete their function, three pilot chutes deploy three main parachutes, significantly reducing the crew module’s speed for a safe splashdown.
The successful testing of these drogue parachutes represents a significant milestone for the Gaganyaan mission. Previous tests have included evaluations of the pilot parachutes and apex cover separation parachutes at the RTRS facility, each contributing to the overall refinement of the parachute system.
This achievement also underscores India’s growing capabilities in space technology. The development and testing of indigenous drogue parachutes reflect the country’s increasing self-reliance in aerospace engineering and its commitment to ensuring the safety and success of its human spaceflight program. As India moves closer to launching its first crewed mission, these rigorous tests play an essential role in validating the systems that will safeguard astronauts on their return journey from space.
