On 3 November 2025, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) conducted a full-scale parachute drop test of the Gaganyaan crew-module simulator from an altitude of about 2.5 km over the Babina Field Firing Range in Uttar Pradesh. Space+3ISRO+3Gadgets 360+3
The drop used the IAF’s IL-76 aircraft which released a simulated module weighing around 7.2 tons. Space+1
Why It Matters
This isn’t a “nice to have” test—it’s a critical risk-mitigation step for India’s human spaceflight ambitions. The parachute system is fundamental for safely returning astronauts to Earth.
During this test:
The parachute sequence was executed: cover separation → drogue chutes → pilot chutes → main parachutes. ISRO+1
ISRO deliberately simulated an off-nominal scenario: one of the main parachutes (or the timing between mains) was stressed to validate redundancy and structural robustness. ISRO
The system uses 10 parachutes of four types to ensure safe descent. Hindustan Times+1
Implications
The Gaganyaan programme gets a major tick of reliability. For you, Hridhaan: this is the kind of milestone that defines aerospace engineering projects—scaled testing, failure modes baked in, redundancy designed in.
With this test done, ISRO can more credibly aim for its target of human spaceflight (currently projected for 2027 or later). Space+1
It sets a precedent in India for “space-safety” culture: you don’t just fly when you’re ready—you test until you’re beyond ready.
Key Technical Takeaways
Drop altitude: ~2.5 km. ISRO+1
Simulated mass: ~7.2 tons (≈6.5 metric tonnes). Space
Parachute sequence:
Two apex cover separation parachutes
Two drogue parachutes for stability and deceleration
Three pilot parachutes to extract the mains
Three main parachutes to handle primary deceleration
The mains are designed so that just two of the three need to succeed for a safe landing—built-in redundancy. ISRO+1
“Reefed inflation” and “disreefing” are part of the opening sequence: partial inflation first, then full opening after a delay. This reduces opening shock and structural stress. ISRO+1
What’s Next
Further tests: ISRO will carry out additional parachute drops under other scenarios, plus full integrated tests involving splashdown/recovery.
Uncrewed mission(s): Before sending humans, Gaganyaan will fly uncrewed demonstration missions with robot passengers etc.
Human mission timeline: The 2027 timeframe remains targetted, but as you know with aerospace, “target” ≠ “guaranteed”.
Reference:
Space.com, “India tests parachutes for Gaganyaan astronaut capsule (video)” — published 11 Nov 2025. Space
ISRO press release, “Successful accomplishment of key development test in Integrated Main Parachute Airdrop Test (IMAT) series for Gaganyaan mission” — 11 Nov 2025. ISRO