Drogue Parachute Tests for Gaganyaan Succeed at Chandigarh RTRS Facility
Drogue Parachute Tests for Gaganyaan Succeed at Chandigarh RTRS Facility
India moves closer to its first human space mission as ISRO wraps up drogue parachute tests for the Gaganyaan crew module at the RTRS facility in Chandigarh.
A series of qualification tests for the drogue parachutes, part of the deceleration system for ISRO's Gaganyaan crew module, were completed at the Rail Track Rocket Sled (RTRS) facility of the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL) in Chandigarh on December 18 and 19, 2025. The tests evaluated 10 parachutes across four types to ensure reliable braking during re-entry and a safe touchdown.
The descent sequence begins with the separation of two apex cover separation parachutes that shed the protective cover from the parachute compartment. This is followed by the deployment of two drogue parachutes to stabilize and decelerate the module. Upon drogues' release, three pilot parachutes deploy to extract three main parachutes, which then slow the crew module to a safe landing.
The objective was to rigorously assess performance and reliability under extreme flight conditions. The tests reportedly demonstrated robustness even when flight conditions varied significantly, bringing India a step closer to its first human space mission.
These successful qualification tests mark another milestone for India's space program and set the stage for continued testing and integration work ahead of mission milestones.
