Technology to send astronauts to space already developed: ISRO on Gaganyaan

August 15, 2018 14:08

Technologies that will help in sending an Indian astronaut to space - like human crew module and environment control and life support system - have already been developed, ISRO chairman K Sivan said today.

Prior to the actual launch by 2022, the Indian Space Research Organisation will have two unmanned missions and spacecraft will be fired using Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark-III, Sivan said.

"We have already developed the technology like human crew module, environment control and life support system. Before undertaking the launch, we will have two unmanned missions. We will use GLSV Mark-III for this project," Sivan said.

His remarks came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced in his Independence Day address that India will attempt a manned mission into space by 2022 on board 'Gaganyaan'.

If successful, India would be the fourth nation to achieve that feat.

Rakesh Sharma, a former IAF pilot, was the first Indian to travel to space. Sharma was a part of Soviet Union's Soyuz T-11 expedition, launched on April 2, 1984, as part of the Intercosmos programme.

Indian-born Kalpana Chawla and Indian-origin Sunita Williams are among the known names to have gone to the space.

Chawla was one of the seven crew members who perished in the space shuttle Columbia's disaster during its re-entry to the Earth's atmosphere.

In December 2014, he announced India will launch SAARC satellite as a "gift" to its neighbours.

Also please read: A morning with the first Indian in space

« Back to LIVE

TOP STORIES

Rahul to contest LS polls from Rae Bareli, his loyalist from Amethi

Kishori Lal Sharma, a close aide of the Gandhi family, has been fielded from the Amethi Lok Sabha seat, the party said in a statement.

Raj Bhavan staffer accuses Bengal guv of molestation, Bose denies charge

Senior police officials said they received a complaint and are looking into it.

'Every Election, BJP Unleashes This Demon...'

'... dividing society not just on religious lines, but also creating rift in families and among brothers and sisters.'

What Did Rohit Tell Rinku?

The brief chat between Rohit and Rinku sparked curiosity.

Eknath Shinde Rouses Support For Son

With two phases of voting already completed, political parties are busy with filing nominations, addressing roadshows and undertaking hectic campaigns for the constituencies that will vote this month.