The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Indian Navy conducted “Well Deck” recovery trials for the Gaganyaan mission off the coast of Vishakhapatnam. This test involved simulating the recovery of the Crew Module, which will be used to bring astronauts back to Earth following their mission. The trials took place aboard a well-deck ship from the Eastern Naval Command, designed to flood its deck with water, allowing for the safe retrieval of boats and spacecraft.
During the Gaganyaan mission, once the Crew Module touches down in the sea, it is essential to recover the crew quickly and comfortably. The well deck method enables the module to be towed into the ship, where astronauts can exit safely. Using a mock-up of the Crew Module that simulated its mass and shape, ISRO and Indian Navy personnel executed a series of operations during the trial.
These included attaching a recovery buoy, towing the module, maneuvering it into the well deck, positioning it on a fixture, and draining the water from the deck. This successful sequence validated operational procedures and will aid in refining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for both normal and emergency recovery scenarios.
The Gaganyaan mission aims to send Indian astronauts into space for a three-day mission in orbit around Earth. This trial shows a significant step in ensuring that all recovery operations are planned and practiced ahead of the mission. The collaboration between ISRO and the Indian Navy shows India’s commitment to developing human spaceflight capabilities.
As preparations continue for Gaganyaan’s upcoming launch, these recovery trials are part of a broader series of tests designed to ensure astronaut safety during re-entry and recovery.
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