📰 Gaganyaan Mission – Latest Updates (June 2025)

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has made significant strides in its ambitious Gaganyaan mission, India’s first human spaceflight program. Below are the key developments as of June 2025:

🚀 Revised Timeline

  • First Crewed Mission: Now scheduled for the first quarter of 2027, marking a delay from the earlier target of 2025. This postponement allows for comprehensive testing and validation of critical systems. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
  • Uncrewed Test Flights: Three uncrewed missions are planned before the crewed launch, with the first (Gaganyaan-1) expected in December 2025. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

🤖 Vyommitra’s Role

  • Humanoid Robot: Vyommitra, a female humanoid robot developed by ISRO, will be onboard the first uncrewed mission to simulate human functions and monitor module parameters. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

🧑‍🚀 Astronaut Training

  • Selected Astronauts: Four Indian Air Force pilots have been selected for the mission: Prashanth Balakrishnan Nair, Ajit Krishnan, Angad Pratap, and Shubhanshu Shukla. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
  • International Collaboration: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is set to participate in a mission to the International Space Station in May 2025, gaining valuable spaceflight experience. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

🔧 Technological Advancements

  • CE-20 Cryogenic Engine: Achieved human-rating certification after rigorous testing, ensuring reliability for crewed missions. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
  • Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS): Development nearing completion, providing necessary life support for astronauts. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
  • Parachute Systems: Indigenously developed parachutes crucial for safe crew module recovery have been dispatched to ISRO. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

🌐 International Collaborations

  • ESA Partnership: ISRO and the European Space Agency have conducted successful radio frequency compatibility tests to ensure seamless communication during missions. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
  • Australian Collaboration: ISRO has signed an agreement with the Australian Space Agency for support in crew and module recovery operations. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
  • Commercial Interest: US-based company Vast is exploring the use of Gaganyaan for crewed missions to its planned commercial space station. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

These developments underscore India’s commitment to advancing its human spaceflight capabilities and fostering international cooperation in space exploration.