Why in news
- ISRO detailed the technological components of the Gaganyaan Crew Escape System (CES), highlighting its automated launch abort mechanisms.
What is the Crew Escape System?
- Emergency safety mechanism designed to rapidly pull the crew module away from the launch vehicle during an emergency or launch trajectory failure.
- Utilizes high-thrust solid motor boosters capable of automatically activating within milliseconds upon fault detection.
Key technical highlights
- Employs a 'puller' design architecture, where escape motors are mounted above the module to pull it clear rather than pushing from beneath.
- Designed to withstand extreme gravitational forces while ensuring safe splashdown recovery via automated parachute systems.
Key terms
Crew Escape System
An autonomous safety abort mechanism designed to rescue spaceflight personnel in event of launch vehicle failure.
Puller Design Architecture
An escape design configuration where abort engines are placed ahead of the payload to pull it clear of the rocket.
Prelims facts
- ISRO's Gaganyaan utilizes a puller-type Crew Escape System to isolate astronauts during launch aborts.
Mains discussion
- Detail the indigenous safety technologies developed by ISRO for human spaceflight missions.
Source: The Hindu