Overview
- ISRO has completed integrated Crew Module–Service Module separation tests that simulated umbilical severing and pyrotechnic jettison events to reproduce the real-world separation sequence.
- The tests were carried out at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre using a replicated CM–SM assembly fitted with extensive sensors to monitor timing, shock loads and equipment responses.
- Instrumentation showed critical crew-module systems tolerated the separation shocks, with positive results for avionics, inertial navigation, aft and conical thermal shields, the deployable umbilical shield, and relevant pyrotechnic devices.
- Validating the CM–SM separation sequence is a key mission step because the crew module must reliably jettison the service module before atmospheric re-entry to protect crew safety.
- The test outcome strengthens readiness for the first uncrewed Gaganyaan flight, G1, and clears the way for further flight qualification activities before any crewed mission is attempted.