ISRO collaborates with Bhubaneswar CTTC on humanoid robot ‘Vyommitra’ for Gaganyaan space mission

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to make a landmark leap in December with the launch of its first humanless Gaganyaan mission, which will feature a humanoid robot named ‘Vyommitra’.

Notably, this mission will mark India’s first foray into sending a human-like robot into space, allowing scientists to test systems and gather critical data in a manless environment.

Vyommitra: India’s First Humanoid Robot In Space

Vyommitra, developed primarily at the Central Tools and Training Centre (CTTC) in Bhubaneswar, has been meticulously engineered to replicate human functions in space. The robot is equipped with a head, two arms, and over half of a human-like torso, enabling it to perform a variety of tasks aboard the spacecraft.

ISRO officials state that Vyommitra will monitor temperature, pressure, and other environmental conditions, transmitting real-time data to mission control for over two years, the intended duration of its operational stay in space.

The robot will also perform scanning and radar functions, which will be invaluable for evaluating spacecraft performance in microgravity.

The project reportedly cost Rs 40–50 lakh and took approximately four months to complete at CTTC. Engineers and senior production managers from the centre were closely involved in developing and testing the robot.

“Vyommitra is the first Indian humanoid to travel in space. Its instruments and onboard systems will relay vital information about space conditions, paving the way for future human missions,” said Asik Rasid, senior production manager.

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State-Of-The-Art Design And Materials

Vyommitra incorporates cutting-edge 3D-printed components made of aluminium, stainless steel, and titanium, designed to withstand the extreme conditions of space.

According to K. Vijay Kumar, Production Manager at CTTC, the robot’s critical components underwent nearly two years of research before being finalised. Advanced material engineering ensures that Vyommitra can operate efficiently under the harsh temperature fluctuations and radiation levels in low Earth orbit.

"The structural parts of the Vyomitra robot are made using 3D-printing technology. We have already made several parts, and ISRO has already taken a demo of those,” said Kumar.

The CTTC’s contribution extends beyond Vyommitra. The centre has previously manufactured high-precision components for ISRO’s Chandrayaan lunar missions, rockets, missiles, and MIG aircraft, earning recognition as a key player in India’s aerospace and defence sectors.

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Impact On India’s Space Program

The upcoming mission represents a significant step in India’s Gaganyaan programme, enabling ISRO to test human survival technologies and spacecraft systems without risking astronauts. 

Vyommitra’s onboard sensors will provide mission controllers with continuous feedback on life support systems, avionics, and cabin conditions, which are essential for planning subsequent human flights.

With over 200 employees participating in various aspects of the project, CTTC Bhubaneswar has once again demonstrated its pivotal role in advancing India’s space capabilities.

"There was a lot of excitement and celebration after the success of Chandrayan. Now, Gaganyaan will also achieve the same level of aspirations. At CTTC, we are striving to make everything that ISRO would need for the mission,” said Siddharth Panda, Engineer, CTTC Bhubaneswar.