Sheopur, Madhya Pradesh: ISRO successfully completed the fifth Integrated Main Parachute Air Drop Test (IMAT-05) for the Gaganyaan programme. The successful test strengthens confidence in India’s first uncrewed Gaganyaan (G1) mission and brings the country one step closer to its human spaceflight goals.
ISRO Conducts Gaganyaan IMAT-05 Successfully
ISRO carried out the critical Integrated Main Parachute Air Drop Test (IMAT) on July 7, 2026, at the Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE) drop zone in Sheopur, Madhya Pradesh. The test is part of the qualification process for the Gaganyaan Crew Module’s parachute system, which is designed to ensure a safe landing after returning from space.
Read also: Explained: How ISRO’s Successful SOLVE Ground Test Strengthens the Gaganyaan Mission
How the Gaganyaan IMAT-05 System Works
The Gaganyaan Crew Module uses a complex deceleration system made up of 10 parachutes of four different types. The landing sequence works in the following order:
- Two Apex Cover Separation parachutes remove the protective cover.
- Two Drogue Parachutes stabilize and slow the module.
- Three Pilot Parachutes pull out the main parachutes.
- Three Main Parachutes reduce the module’s speed for a safe splashdown in the sea.
What is the Purpose of the Test
The main objective of IMAT-05 was to check the structural strength and design performance of the Main Parachute under the highest expected load conditions for the first uncrewed Gaganyaan G1 mission. During the test, a simulated main parachute assembly carrying a dummy mass was dropped from an altitude of 2.5 km using an Indian Air Force IL-76 aircraft.
After the extractor and drogue parachutes stabilized the payload, the main parachute deployed successfully and safely slowed the payload to its target landing speed.
Why Gaganyaan IMAT-05 Test Is Important
This was the fifth Integrated Main Parachute Air Drop Test (IMAT-05) conducted by ISRO. The successful completion of the test confirms the reliability and performance of the Main Parachute System, increasing confidence ahead of India’s first uncrewed Gaganyaan G1 mission.
Joint Effort Behind the Success
The mission was completed through the combined efforts of:
- ISRO
- DRDO
- Indian Air Force
- Indian Army
This collaboration highlights the teamwork involved in preparing India’s first human spaceflight programme.
Read also: What Is Zero Gravity Training? How ISRO Is Preparing Gaganyaan Crew for Space Reality
