The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced on 13 July 2026 that it had successfully carried out three major tests of the crew module systems being developed for Gaganyaan, India's first human spaceflight programme. The tests validate critical safety mechanisms that will protect astronauts during flight, re-entry and recovery.
The first test validated the Crew Module Uprighting System, which ensures the crew module returns to an upright position after splashdown in the sea. The mechanism relies on stored cold-gas technology and is a critical safety feature for the astronauts aboard.
The second test demonstrated the separation of the umbilical mechanism that connects the crew module, which houses the astronauts, to the service module, which supplies power and propulsion. The mechanism comprises CSU-1 on the crew module side and CSU-2 on the service module side. During re-entry, the service module separates after CSU-1 disconnects, followed by CSU-2 separation before atmospheric re-entry. The test demonstrated the clean separation of CSU-2 along with the structural stability of the crew module panel and its interfaces.
The third test confirmed the structural integrity of the Apex Cover Separation. The apex cover protects the parachutes and associated systems during the mission and is jettisoned before the parachutes deploy, enabling the crew module to descend safely.
Together, these tests mark important progress for Gaganyaan, advancing the technologies India needs to send astronauts into space and bring them back safely.