The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is preparing for its next phase of lunar exploration with the Chandrayaan-4 and Chandrayaan-5 missions. According to ISRO Chairman S. Somanath, the designs for these missions are now ready and are awaiting government approval. These missions seek to build upon the success of Chandrayaan-3, which marked a significant milestone for India by achieving a landing near the Moon’s south pole. The upcoming missions will focus on further exploring the lunar surface.
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Gaganyaan Mission Update
In addition to the lunar missions, ISRO is making strides in its Gaganyaan mission, which is set to be India’s first human spaceflight. The ISRO chief stated in an interview that an unmanned test is scheduled for December. The rocket stages, including the final C-32 cryogenic stage, have arrived at the launch site in Sriharikota. The crew module is being integrated at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, while the service module is being prepared at the UR Rao Satellite Centre. The crew escape systems are being delivered to the launch site, with the December launch contingent on completing final integrations and testing.
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Training for Axiom-4 Mission
Meanwhile, two astronauts selected for the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) are currently undergoing initial training in the United States. This training, which will last three months, includes additional sessions in Europe and other US facilities before the astronauts return to India. The Axiom-4 mission, scheduled for mid-2025, will be a significant milestone for India’s space program.
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SSLV Technology Transfer
In another development, ISRO has successfully completed the third developmental flight of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV). The technology is now ready for commercialisation, with ISRO set to transfer it through a consortium of companies. Several enterprises have shown interest, and a request for a proposal has been received. The selected company will collaborate with ISRO for two years to facilitate technology transfer and integration.