🔋 Power Systems (Service Module)

The Power Systems onboard the Gaganyaan Service Module are responsible for generating, storing, and distributing electrical power to all spacecraft subsystems, including life support, avionics, and communication units.

  • Solar Panels: Deployed after reaching orbit, the panels convert solar energy into electricity using photovoltaic cells. They are mounted on the exterior of the Service Module for maximum sunlight exposure.
  • Battery Backup: High-capacity lithium-ion batteries store surplus power from the solar panels and provide energy during eclipse periods and launch ascent.
  • Power Distribution Unit (PDU): A central unit regulates voltage levels and distributes power efficiently across systems, prioritizing critical components.
  • Thermal Regulation: The power system is thermally protected to maintain efficiency under varying orbital temperatures.
  • Redundancy & Fault Tolerance: Multiple protection circuits and duplicate paths are included to ensure uninterrupted power even in fault conditions.

These systems are designed for optimal performance in space’s harsh environment, ensuring the spacecraft remains functional for the mission’s full duration.

❄️ Thermal Systems (Service Module)

The Thermal Systems in the Gaganyaan Service Module are essential for maintaining optimal temperature conditions for onboard systems and structural components. They protect sensitive equipment from the harsh thermal environment of space.

  • Insulation Layers: Multi-layer insulation (MLI) blankets are used to shield components from extreme space temperatures, both hot and cold.
  • Heat Pipes & Radiators: These dissipate excess heat from power systems, propulsion components, and avionics to maintain system stability.
  • Temperature Sensors: Continuous monitoring ensures that subsystems remain within safe operating limits. The system triggers cooling or heating responses as needed.
  • Heaters: Electrically powered heaters are used to warm components during cold orbital phases or eclipse periods.
  • Passive & Active Thermal Control: A combination of passive methods (coatings, shielding) and active systems (radiators, heaters) ensures thermal balance across modules.

These thermal controls are vital to prevent overheating or freezing of electronics, fuel lines, and critical mission hardware in the vacuum of space.