ISRO Successfully Completes Drogue Parachute Qualification Tests for Gaganyaan Mission

Key Parachute Tests Concluded for Gaganyaan

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has announced the successful completion of critical drogue parachute deployment qualification tests for the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission. These pivotal tests were carried out on December 18 and 19, 2025, at the Rail Track Rocket Sled (RTRS) facility of the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL) in Chandigarh, India. The successful qualification marks a significant milestone in India's ambitious human spaceflight program.

Deceleration System Details and Test Objectives

The deceleration system for the Gaganyaan Crew Module is an intricate arrangement comprising ten parachutes of four distinct types. The sequence of deployment is designed to ensure a controlled and safe descent during atmospheric re-entry. It begins with two apex cover separation parachutes, followed by two drogue parachutes that stabilize and significantly reduce the module's velocity. Subsequently, three pilot parachutes are deployed to extract three main parachutes, which further slow down the crew module for a safe touchdown.

The recent tests specifically focused on the drogue parachutes, which are a crucial component in stabilizing the crew module and reducing its speed to a safe level during re-entry. The primary objective was to rigorously evaluate their performance and reliability under extreme conditions and significant variations in flight parameters. Both tests conducted at the RTRS facility achieved all their intended objectives, confirming the robustness and consistency of the drogue parachutes.

Collaborative Effort Towards Human Spaceflight

This achievement is the result of a collaborative effort involving several key organizations. Active support and participation were provided by the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), ISRO, the Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE), DRDO, and the Terminal Ballistic Research Laboratory (TBRL), DRDO.

The successful completion of these qualification trials brings the Gaganyaan mission closer to operational readiness. The Gaganyaan program aims to demonstrate India's indigenous capability to undertake human spaceflight missions to Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The first uncrewed test flight, Gaganyaan-1, is scheduled for December 2025, with the first crewed flight anticipated in 2027.