Aakanksha Jetley, Pune
The Indian Space Research Organisation( ISRO) has made significant progress in testing drogue parachutes for the Gaganyaan human space flight mission. These parachutes are pivotal in stabilising the crew module and reducing its celerity during e-entry, assuring astronauts’ safe return from Space.
At the Rail Track Rocket Sled (RTRS) installation in Chandigarh, ISRO’s Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (VSSC) successfully tested drogue parachutes to drop speed and stabilise fleeting objects. According to a statement released by the National Space Agency on Friday, the tests were conducted between August 8 and 10.
The tests conducted in collaboration with the Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment(ADRDE) and DRDO involved drogue parachutes packed in pyro-grounded mortars. These conical strip-type parachutes are designed to eject into the air upon command. They boast a periphery of 5.8 metres and employ a single-stage reefing medium, ingeniously minimising cover area, and mollifying opening shock, enabling a smooth and controlled descent.
At the RTRS installation, three comprehensive tests estimated the performance and trustability of drogue parachutes through accurate- world simulations. The first test introduced reefing in a mortar-stationed parachute within India, presenting the maximum reefed cargo. The alternate test emulated the maximum reefed cargo, and the third test showcased the drogue parachute deployment under conditions that mimicked the maximum angle of attack endured by the crew module during its charge.
The statement by ISRO verified that these successful RTRS tests serve as a critical qualification landmark for drogue parachutes, attesting to their readiness for integration into the forthcoming Test Vehicle D1 charge.
Previously, the RTRS tested Airman and Apex separation parachutes, further pressing the progress of developing the Gaganyaan charge’s parachute system. The intricate retardation sequence for the Gaganyaan crew module involves ten parachutes.
With the successful deployment of two apex cover separation parachutes, two drogue parachutes for stabilisation, and three main parachutes for a secure harbour, the mission was a complete success. This marks another milestone for the country.