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Published 23:45 IST, August 16th 2024

ISRO Aims To Launch First Test Flight Of Gaganyaan Mission By December: S Somanath

The Indian Space Research Organisation aims to launch the first test flight of the ambitious Gaganyaan mission by December, 2024, says S Somanath.

Reported by: Digital Desk
ISRO Chief S Somanath | Image: ANI

New Delhi: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) aims to launch the first test flight of the ambitious Gaganyaan mission by December, 2024. ISRO Chief S Somanath on Friday announced in Sriharikota, saying that the ISRO is currently working on the first mission of Gaganyaan, an unmanned mission, called G1. The announcement came following the successful launch of the third and final developmental flight of the SSLV earlier Friday, placing the Earth Observation Satellite into orbit.

S Somanath said that some of the rocket hardware for the human space programme has reached the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota and the integration of the crew module was going on at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre. "We are currently working on the first mission of Gaganyaan, called G1, which is an unmanned mission. The rocket stages, including the S200, L1, and C32, are all at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre," Somanath said.

Successful SSLV Mission Has Opened Door For Industry To Collaborate With ISRO: S Somanath

"We need to complete the wiring and testing. Our target is to have the entire system ready by November, with a possible launch in December," he asserted, adding that the Crew Module integration is ongoing at VSSC Trivandrum, and the Crew Escape hardware is ready.

The ISRO chairman also stated that the successful SSLV mission has opened the door for industry to collaborate with ISRO in placing satellites into Low Earth Orbit.

In response to a question about the industry’s involvement in commercial SSLV missions, Somanath mentioned that a day-long meeting was recently held with industry representatives.

"I hope the first technology transfer between ISRO and industry will happen in India soon. We have released a Request for Interest (RFI), inviting companies to express interest in technology transfer from ISRO and outlining the expectations and qualifications for such missions," he said.

ISRO has planned to partner with the industry, teaching them how to build rockets, with companies required to meet ISRO's criteria, including manufacturing capabilities and financial strength, according to the ISRO chairman.

He further said that companies will be assessed and shortlisted based on their performance, and those selected will enter into contracts after paying a technology transfer fee.
 

Updated 23:45 IST, August 16th 2024

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