ISRO's Gaganyaan reaches 90% completion ahead of historic human spaceflight, chairman V Narayanan confirms progress

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is making remarkable progress on its human spaceflight programme, Gaganyaan. Chairman V Narayanan recently revealed that approximately 90 per cent of the mission’s development work has been completed, signalling a major milestone for India’s ambitions in space exploration as reported by Indian Defence News. The Gaganyaan mission aims to send Indian astronauts into low Earth orbit using an indigenously developed spacecraft, marking a historic achievement for the nation. Key technological elements, including a human-rated launch vehicle, life support systems, crew safety mechanisms, and human-centric equipment, are nearing completion. With successful integrated tests already conducted, ISRO is poised to join the ranks of countries capable of independent crewed space missions, reinforcing India’s growing stature in global space science.


Gaganyaan and GSAT-7R mark major milestones in India’s space ambitions

Gaganyaan is India’s ambitious programme aimed at sending its first astronauts into low Earth orbit aboard an indigenously developed spacecraft. The mission represents a major step for India, marking the country’s entry into a select group of nations capable of independent human spaceflight. The project involves not only sophisticated rocket engineering but also life support systems, crew safety mechanisms, and advanced human-centric technologies. Achieving 90 per cent completion reflects years of research, development, and testing across multiple ISRO centres.

Alongside Gaganyaan, ISRO is also preparing to launch the GSAT-7R satellite on November 2, using the LVM-3 launch vehicle. This satellite is specifically designed to strengthen India’s naval communication network, ensuring secure and reliable communication between ships, submarines, and ground stations. The launch highlights ISRO’s dual focus on both strategic defence applications and civilian space exploration.


Chairman Narayanan highlights key technological challenges and upcoming ESTIC 2025


Chairman Narayanan emphasised the technological challenges that remain critical for Gaganyaan’s success. The rocket must be human-rated, meaning it must meet stringent safety and reliability standards for crewed missions. In addition, life support systems and crew escape mechanisms need to be flawless to safeguard astronauts in emergencies. Human-centric products, including suits and onboard systems, are also being carefully developed to ensure comfort and safety in space. The successful completion of the integrated air-drop test marks a key milestone, demonstrating the effectiveness of crew escape and safety protocols.

Beyond mission updates, Narayanan spoke about the upcoming Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC 2025). This event is expected to gather researchers, innovators, industry leaders, and policymakers to explore cutting-edge technologies and collaborative solutions. The conclave will showcase India’s achievements in science and technology and provide a platform to discuss challenges, opportunities, and strategies for fostering innovation.


ESTIC 2025 to showcase India’s innovation and future space plans


ESTIC 2025 aims to create a holistic innovation ecosystem by promoting cross-disciplinary collaboration and knowledge-sharing. By aligning with national missions focused on scientific advancement and sustainable development, the conclave encourages the translation of research into practical, real-world applications that benefit society. It emphasises inclusivity, self-reliance, and the acceleration of scientific solutions for pressing global and national challenges. Rajarajan A, Director of the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, added that the conclave will also highlight India’s space achievements and the innovation roadmap leading up to 2047. This long-term vision reflects ISRO’s commitment to sustained growth in space technology, positioning India as a leader in scientific research, innovation, and international space collaboration.




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