DRDO Achieves Milestone with Gaganyaan Parachute Tests

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved a significant milestone by successfully testing the drogue parachutes designed for the Gaganyaan crew module. Conducted on February 18, 2026, at the Rail Track Rocket Sled (RTRS) facility located within the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL) in Chandigarh, the tests involved subjecting the parachutes to loads exceeding the maximum expected during flight.

This qualification test was a collaborative effort involving the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, the Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE), and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). By successfully testing the drogue parachutes at these elevated loads, DRDO has demonstrated a robust design that incorporates an additional safety margin, enhancing the reliability of the parachute system.

Advancements in Parachute Technology

The drogue parachutes are an integral part of a sophisticated sequence of ten parachutes that will be deployed during the final phase of the Gaganyaan mission. These parachutes play a crucial role in reducing the velocity of the crew module upon reentry, ensuring a safe landing for the astronauts. The parachute deployment sequence begins with apex cover parachutes, which release the protective casing. Following this, the drogue parachutes will be deployed at high speeds to stabilize the crew module and facilitate the deployment of three pilot parachutes.

The successful test at the RTRS facility builds on previous evaluations, including tests conducted in August 2023 and February 2025. These tests assessed the performance of the parachutes in various configurations, ensuring thorough validation of the system’s capabilities. The RTRS facility is specifically designed for high-speed aerodynamic and ballistic evaluations using a rocket-propelled sled, making it ideal for such critical tests.

Significance for India’s Human Spaceflight Program

The Gaganyaan mission aims to send one or two astronauts, referred to as Gaganyatris, into orbit around the Earth using the human-rated Launch Vehicle Mark 3 (HR-LVM3). Upon mission completion, the crew module will reenter the atmosphere, necessitating a highly reliable parachute system to ensure a safe splashdown in the ocean.

The drogue parachutes, capable of operating at tremendous velocities, represent a key component in this complex system. Following the initial parachute deployments, the pilot parachutes will further reduce speed before the main parachutes are released. The innovative two-stage reefing technique employed will enhance safety during the descent.

DRDO’s ongoing testing and development efforts not only highlight India’s growing expertise in aerospace technology but also underscore the nation’s commitment to advancing its human spaceflight capabilities. As preparations for the Gaganyaan mission continue, these successful tests pave the way for future milestones in India’s ambitious space exploration agenda.