Union Minister of State for Science & Technology and Department of Space Dr Jitendra Singh informed Parliament that ISRO’s recent Integrated Main Parachute Airdrop Test (IMAT) marks a major step in preparing for India’s first human space mission, Gaganyaan. He said the successful test has significantly advanced the human‑rating roadmap and supports the target of launching the first crewed mission in the first quarter of 2027.
IMAT and extreme-condition validation
Dr Singh explained that IMAT is a key element in the qualification campaign for the Crew Module’s parachute‑based deceleration system, one of the most critical human‑safety subsystems of Gaganyaan. In the latest test, engineers simulated one of the most extreme descent conditions by deliberately delaying the disreefing sequence between the two main parachutes, creating a highly asymmetric and high‑load environment. The system successfully withstood these stresses, validating its structural integrity and load‑bearing performance under worst‑case conditions and reinforcing confidence in safe crew recovery during re‑entry and splashdown.
Independent oversight and transparency
Addressing questions on checks and balances, Dr Singh said ISRO’s crew module parachute systems and related test data are regularly examined by independent review bodies such as the Design Review Team, the Independent Assessment Committee and the National Advisory Panel for Human Rating and Certification. These multi‑disciplinary groups of experts scrutinise all human‑rating elements to ensure rigorous compliance with safety standards. He added that ISRO has been periodically sharing major test outcomes, including IMAT, and will continue to keep Parliament and the public informed as milestones are achieved.
Crew safety, training and emergency protocols
On crew preparedness, the Minister underlined that astronaut safety is the highest priority for Gaganyaan and that every qualification test feeds directly into system refinement and training updates. Astronauts undergo extensive simulations of emergency scenarios, practice survival procedures for off‑nominal landings, train in the use of emergency survival kits and receive sustained psychological support to ensure holistic readiness. Lessons from IMAT and other tests are being integrated into emergency protocols and survival training so that Gaganyatris are equipped to respond effectively in any contingency.
Risk management and path to 2027 launch
Dr Singh informed the House that ISRO has established a comprehensive risk‑assessment and mitigation framework aligned with global human‑spaceflight norms, overseen by bodies such as the Human Rating Certification Board and the National Advisory Panel. Each successful test, including IMAT, helps reduce overall mission risk by validating hardware, refining recovery operations and strengthening crew, ground and certification processes. He reiterated that with this systematic approach, India’s first manned space mission remains on track for a launch window in the first quarter of 2027, marking a historic milestone in the country’s space journey.
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Source: PIB
