• Source:JND
HighLights
  1. Crew Module Uprighting System validated for post-splashdown stability.
  2. Umbilical Separation Mechanism successfully verified between modules.
  3. Apex Cover Separation test ensures parachute deployment sequence.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Sunday announced the successful completion of three major tests of the Gaganyaan crew module systems, marking a significant breakthrough in ensuring the safety of astronauts.

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Crew Module Uprighting System Validated In First Test

The first test was ensuring the module maintains an upright position immediately after splashing down in the sea, a critical requirement for safeguarding the crew during recovery. To achieve this, ISRO developed and tested a specialised, stored cold-gas-based uprighting system.

"A system-level qualification test setup consisting of all the elements of CMUS (crew module uprighting system) was realised and successfully conducted inflation tests for the primary inflation module wherein stored gas in the high-pressure gas bottle was made to inflate the flotation by operating the control valves," ISRO said.

Successful Verification Of Umbilical Separation Mechanism

The second test involved verifying the separation of the umbilical mechanism, which serves as the link between the crew module and the service module. This mechanism consists of two parts: CSU-1 on the crew module side and CSU-2 on the service module side.

During a simulated separation test, ISRO validated this sequence: the service module detaches from the crew module once CSU-1 separates, followed by the separation of CSU-2 just before atmospheric re-entry.

The space agency further stated, "Separation test of CSU-2 from simulated crew module was carried out. The test demonstrated the clean separation of CSU-2 as well as structural stability of the crew module panel and their interfaces."

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Apex Cover Separation Validated In Third Test

The third test validated the structural integrity of the crew module during the apex cover separation event. The apex cover protects the parachutes and their associated subsystems throughout the mission, and it must separate before the parachutes are deployed to decelerate the crew module.

(With Inputs From PTI)


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