Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh informed Parliament that ISRO has achieved a key milestone in its preparations for India’s first human space mission with the successful completion of the Integrated Main Parachute Airdrop Test (IMAT). He said in the Lok Sabha that the test forms a central part of the qualification campaign for the Crew Module’s parachute-based deceleration system, one of the most vital elements in human-rating the mission.

According to Dr. Jitendra Singh, the IMAT recreated one of the most demanding descent conditions by intentionally delaying the disreefing sequence between the two main parachutes. This scenario generated asymmetric loads, and the system’s ability to withstand the resulting stress was successfully demonstrated. He noted that the positive outcome of this high-stress test moves the programme significantly closer to meeting the Government’s target of launching the first crewed Gaganyaan mission by early 2027.

Responding to parliamentarians’ questions on oversight and independent verification, Dr. Singh said that ISRO’s Crew Module parachute system undergoes multiple layers of external review. These include the Design Review Team, the Independent Assessment Committee and the National Advisory Panel for Human Rating & Certification – bodies comprising senior experts who examine every test result and design refinement.

On transparency concerns, the Minister added that ISRO continues to share key developments, including the outcomes of major qualification tests like IMAT, and will maintain this practice throughout the programme.

He further assured the House that crew safety remains the highest priority. As part of astronaut preparedness, training modules cover emergency simulations, survival tactics for off-nominal landings, operation of emergency kits and psychological conditioning. He also highlighted that the Human Rating Certification Board and the National Advisory Panel maintain strict oversight to ensure mission risks stay within globally accepted norms.

Dr. Singh said each successful test strengthens system reliability, crew readiness and recovery preparedness ahead of India’s historic human spaceflight.

News source: PIB