India’s uncrewed Gaganyaan Mission to launch this year: ISRO Chairman in Bhubaneswar

Dr. V. Narayanan, Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), disclosed plans on Wednesday regarding the first flight under the ambitious Gaganyaan space programme, which is to be an uncrewed mission scheduled for this year.

The ISRO Chairman said this during his visit to the Central Tool Room and Training Centre (CTTC) in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

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This will set the stage for two more uncrewed missions before Indian astronauts’ journey into space. After this, nearly two and a half years later, anticipated in the first quarter of 2027, Gaganyaan will travel to space carrying astronauts. This showcases India's advancing prowess in space exploration.

Dr. Narayanan also elaborated on ISRO's collaboration with NASA, noting two joint missions. August will see the launch of satellites using the MK-3 engine from ISRO's launch pad. This mission marks a technological leap with 30 innovations, including quantum technology and electric propulsion.

Moreover, Dr. Narayanan highlighted ISRO's ongoing infrastructure advancements. A third launch pad and a second launch complex are under construction.

India aims to establish indigenous space station

The Chairman also mentioned ISRO's relentless efforts towards establishing an indigenous space station. Weighing 52 tonnes, it will be assembled in five phases, with the first module expected by 2028.

“We are working towards taking our own Indian Gaganyatri to space. And this year, we are targeting the first uncrewed mission. After two more missions, the actual mission is targeted towards the first quarter of 2027,” the ISRO chief expressed.

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“The first space station module will be established in 2028,” Dr. V. Narayanan stated.

“Advancements we are making with each mission highlight India's growing capabilities in space exploration,” Dr Narayanan remarked.