
Sat Jan 31 07:46:36 UTC 2026: # India’s Gaganyaan Mission Faces Hurdles, Uncrewed Launch Planned for 2027
The Story:
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is targeting 2027 for the launch of its ambitious Gaganyaan mission, India’s first human spaceflight program. Before that landmark event, ISRO plans three uncrewed missions, with the first scheduled for launch before 2027. ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan emphasized the critical importance of safety and rigorous testing for the Gaganyaan mission, highlighting the need for perfection to ensure the safe return of the three-member crew after a three-day mission in space.
The announcement comes shortly after ISRO experienced an anomaly during the January 12, 2026, PSLV-C62 mission, where the third stage of the rocket malfunctioned after liftoff. Scientists are currently analyzing the cause of the failure to prevent future setbacks.
Key Points:
- Gaganyaan mission is planned for 2027.
- Three uncrewed missions are planned before the crewed mission.
- ISRO emphasizes stringent safety measures and rigorous testing for the Gaganyaan mission.
- PSLV-C62 mission experienced an anomaly in the third stage on January 12, 2026.
- Scientists are analyzing the PSLV-C62 anomaly.
Key Takeaways:
- ISRO’s Gaganyaan program remains a top priority for India’s space ambitions.
- The emphasis on safety underscores the risks associated with human spaceflight.
- Recent setbacks, like the PSLV-C62 anomaly, highlight the challenges and complexities of space missions, potentially delaying the overall Gaganyaan schedule.
- Successful uncrewed missions are crucial for building confidence and validating the technologies needed for the crewed flight.
- ISRO is committed to thorough analysis and corrective actions to address the PSLV-C62 anomaly and ensure the reliability of future launches.