CHENNAI: The Indian Space Research Organisation has successfully completed a crucial series of qualification tests for the drogue parachutes of the Gaganyaan Crew Module, marking a significant step forward in India’s human spaceflight programme.

The tests were conducted on December 18 and 19 at the Rail Track Rocket Sled facility of the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory in Chandigarh. Officials said the successful trials validated the performance and reliability of the drogue parachutes, which play a critical role in the safe descent and landing of the crew module.

The drogue parachutes are a key component of the crew module’s deceleration system. The overall parachute system consists of ten parachutes of four different types. During descent, the sequence begins with the deployment of apex cover separation parachutes, followed by drogue parachutes that stabilise and slow down the module. This is then followed by the deployment of pilot parachutes, which in turn deploy the main parachutes to ensure a safe and controlled touchdown.

According to ISRO, the qualification tests were designed to rigorously evaluate the parachutes under extreme and varying conditions that may be encountered during atmospheric re-entry, when the crew module is subjected to intense heat and dynamic loads. Both test runs met all objectives, confirming the structural robustness and consistent performance of the drogue parachutes across a range of operational scenarios.

Officials said the successful completion of these tests is a major milestone in certifying the parachute system for human spaceflight. With this achievement, ISRO has moved closer to ensuring the safety and reliability of the Gaganyaan mission, India’s first crewed spaceflight.