Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Completes Drogue Parachute Qualification Tests for Gaganyaan Mission

Key facts

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully completed a series of qualification tests for drogue parachutes developed for the Gaganyaan mission's Crew Module.
• The tests were conducted at the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL) Rail Track Rocket Sled (RTRS) facility in Chandigarh on 18 and 19 December.
• The parachute-based deceleration system of the Gaganyaan Crew Module consists of ten parachutes of four different types to ensure a controlled and safe descent.
• The deployment sequence involves two apex cover separation parachutes, followed by two drogue parachutes, three pilot parachutes, and three main parachutes.
• Drogue parachutes are designed to stabilise the Crew Module and significantly reduce its velocity during atmospheric re-entry.
• The tests were carried out with participation from the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), the Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE), DRDO, and the TBRL.