JOIN USIndia’s human space flight (HSF) programme is some years away, but preliminary work has begun, Isro Chairman K Radhakrishnan told reporters at the Isro Satellite Integration and Testing Establishment, Marathhalli, on Wednesday.
Studies on crew vehicle, escape system and re-entry into earth’s atmosphere are underway and funds have been released for initial work. “The HSF programme has begun. It is in the initial stage. We have to learn and make certain technologies especially for re-entry into earth’s atmosphere. These are critical technologies and have to be mastered to obtain 100 per cent accuracy.”
”We are already working on GSLV MK-III, which can carry satellites weighing between 4,500-5,000 kg. Our flight testing of the cryogenic stage and engine has been successful. Now, the focus is on making GSLV a reliable rocket,” he said.