Context: Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) facility at Thumba in Thiruvananthapuram, has developed the multi-purpose app SAKHI that will help astronauts on Gaganyaan space flight mission carry out a range of tasks.
About SAKHI App:
- The Space-borne Assistant and Knowledge Hub for Crew Interaction (SAKHI) is a digital platform integrated to the space suits of astronauts that will assist the astronauts as follows:
- Looking up vital technical information: Give assistance to the astronauts regarding technical documents and training manuals digitally at short notice, thereby, preventing the need to carry manual documents.
- Monitor the health of the astronauts: SAKHI will also keep a close watch on their physical condition/ vitals by providing information on key parameters like blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen saturation and alert them about their dietary schedules, hydration level, sleep patterns throughout their mission.
- Maintain mission log: Astronauts can use the app to maintain a log on the mission in multiple formats including voice records, texts and images.
- Help them stay connected with Earth: SAKHI will keep the crew connected with the onboard computer and ground-based stations, guaranteeing a seamless communication link.
Gaganyaan Human Spaceflight Mission:
- Gaganyaan mission envisages demonstration of human spaceflight capability by launching a crew of 3 members to a Low earth Orbit of 400 km for a 3 days mission and bring them back safely to earth, by landing in Indian sea waters. ISRO is hoping to launch the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission in 2025.
- The crewed flight is planned on the Human Rated Launch Vehicle Mark 3 (LVM3) as the launch vehicle. It comprises solid, liquid and cryogenic stages.
- Human Space Flight Centre will coordinate the Indian Human Spaceflight Programme. The agency will be responsible for implementation of the Gaganyaan project.
- ISRO has already performed a Crew Module Atmospheric Re-entry Experiment and a Pad Abort Test for the mission. The project will cost less than Rs. 10,000 crore.
- India has revealed the identities of the four astronaut-designates, all IAF test pilots at the VSSC in February 2024. The final crew for the mission will be picked from among the four.
- If completed on schedule, India will become the world's fourth nation to conduct independent human spaceflight after the Soviet Union/Russia, United States and People's Republic of China.