The 'Waste Management System' for Gaganyaan astronauts is designed to handle which type of environment?
- Microgravity
- Extreme heat
- Vacuum only
- High pressure
Explanation: Space toilets use suction systems (airflow) instead of gravity to collect and store human waste in a weightless environment.
Which system monitors the physiological parameters like heart rate and blood pressure of the Gaganyatris?
- Crew-link
- ECLSS
- Bio-sensors
- Tele-health
Explanation: A specialized suite of bio-sensors is integrated into the flight suits to monitor astronaut health in real-time.
The 'Gaganyaan Advisory Council' was established to provide multi-institutional oversight. It is chaired by:
- Prime Minister
- Defense Minister
- National Security Advisor
- Chairman ISRO
Explanation: The high-level advisory council consists of experts from various national institutions and is headed by the Chairman of ISRO.
What kind of thermal protection system is used for the base of the Gaganyaan Crew Module to survive re-entry?
- Ablative shield
- Metallic alloy
- Reflective coating
- Ceramic tiles
Explanation: An ablative heat shield is used, which slowly burns away to dissipate the extreme heat generated during atmospheric re-entry.
The astronauts selected for the mission are primarily drawn from which professional background?
- Space engineers
- Navy divers
- Civilian scientists
- Air Force pilots
Explanation: The current four Gaganyatris are all experienced test pilots from the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Which Mysore-based laboratory has developed the specialized space food and nutrition for the Indian astronauts?
Explanation: The Defence Food Research Laboratory (DFRL), under DRDO, has developed a variety of Indian-style space foods and drinking systems.
In which Indian city is the Human Space Flight Centre (HSFC), the nodal agency for Gaganyaan, headquartered?
- Sriharikota
- Bengaluru
- Thiruvananthapuram
- Hyderabad
Explanation: The HSFC was established at the ISRO Headquarters in Bengaluru to lead the Human Spaceflight Programme.
The 'ECLSS' in the Gaganyaan mission is a critical technical system responsible for:
- Life support
- Data encryption
- Engine cooling
- Payload release
Explanation: ECLSS stands for Environment Control and Life Support System, which manages oxygen, carbon dioxide, and temperature inside the crew module.
The TV-D1 test flight, conducted in late 2023, was primarily intended to demonstrate the:
- Orbital docking
- Cryogenic engine
- Crew Escape System
- Soft landing
Explanation: Test Vehicle Abort Mission-1 (TV-D1) demonstrated the Crew Escape System (CES) performance at a high Mach number.
Which 'test bed' facility is used to simulate the solar radiation and vacuum conditions of space for the module?
- Plasma wind tunnel
- Thermal Vacuum Chamber
- Hypersonic tunnel
- Acoustic chamber
Explanation: Spacecraft hardware is tested in a Thermal Vacuum Chamber (TVC) to ensure it can survive the extreme temperature swings and vacuum of space.
The LVM3 rocket's third stage, which is crucial for reaching orbital velocity, uses which type of engine?
- Plasma engine
- Cryogenic engine
- Solid booster
- Vikas engine
Explanation: The upper stage of LVM3 (C25 stage) uses the indigenous CE-20 high-thrust cryogenic engine.
The orbital altitude of 400 km chosen for Gaganyaan is approximately the same as which other space facility?
- International Space Station
- James Webb
- Hubble Telescope
- NavIC constellation
Explanation: The ISS orbits at an average altitude of about 400 km, which is a standard altitude for most crewed Low Earth Orbit missions.
What is the internal volume (habitable space) of the Gaganyaan Crew Module?
- 15 cubic meters
- 12 cubic meters
- 5 cubic meters
- 8 cubic meters
Explanation: The habitable volume of the Crew Module is approximately 8 cubic meters, designed for a three-person crew.
Which technical 'law' or limit is Gaganyaan designed to operate within regarding human acceleration (G-force)?
- Terminal velocity
- Orbital drag
- Safety G-limit
- Escape velocity
Explanation: The mission profile is designed to ensure that the G-forces experienced by the crew during launch and re-entry remain within safe human physiological limits.
The 'Orbital Module' is a combination of which two primary units?
- Core and Booster
- Propulsion and Payload
- Lander and Rover
- Crew and Service
Explanation: The Orbital Module (OM) consists of the Crew Module (CM), where the astronauts live, and the Service Module (SM), which houses support systems.
The LVM3 solid rocket boosters used for initial liftoff are technically known as:
Explanation: The LVM3 uses two S200 solid rocket boosters, which are among the largest solid motors in the world.
The Gaganyaan orbital module will be placed in which specific type of Earth orbit?
- Medium Earth Orbit
- Low Earth Orbit
- Geostationary Orbit
- Polar Orbit
Explanation: The mission aims to demonstrate human spaceflight capability by launching a crew to an altitude of 400 km in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
Which 'window' feature of the Crew Module allows the Gaganyatris to view the Earth and space?
- Tempered glass
- Polycarbonate
- Fused silica
- Acrylic glass
Explanation: Spacecraft windows use multiple panes of high-quality fused silica to withstand thermal shocks and maintain structural strength.
The high-thrust liquid engines used in the L110 core stage of the LVM3 rocket are named:
- Vikas
- Garud
- Chetak
- Kaveri
Explanation: The L110 liquid core stage utilizes two Vikas engines, which have been human-rated for the Gaganyaan mission.
Which primary defense organization is collaborating with ISRO for the recovery of the crew module from the sea?
- Indian Air Force
- Marine Police
- Indian Navy
- Coast Guard
Explanation: The Indian Navy is the lead agency for the recovery operations of the Crew Module after splashdown in the Arabian Sea.
How many Gaganyatris (astronauts) is the Crew Module technically designed to carry simultaneously?
- Two members
- Four members
- Five members
- Three members
Explanation: The Crew Module (CM) is designed to accommodate a maximum of three astronauts for the orbital mission.
The solid boosters (S200) of the LVM3 rocket use which chemical as the primary fuel?
- Hydrazine
- Liquid Hydrogen
- HTPB
- Kerosene
Explanation: Hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) is the standard solid propellant used in ISRO's solid rocket motors.
Which technical term describes the 'Human-Rating' of a rocket for a manned mission?
- Flight margin
- Thrust vectoring
- Payload upgrade
- Reliability certification
Explanation: Human-rating involves a rigorous process of ensuring that every system has a very high reliability and failsafe mechanisms to protect the crew.
What is the official title given to the Indian astronauts of the Gaganyaan mission?
- Gaganyatris
- Nabhomnauts
- Viyomnauts
- Antarikshyatris
Explanation: ISRO and the Indian government use the term 'Gaganyatri' (Gagan = Sky/Space, Yatri = Traveler) for Indian astronauts.
Which organization's 'IAM' (Institute of Aerospace Medicine) is providing medical support and psychological training for the crew?
- ISRO Hospital
- AIIMS Delhi
- Indian Air Force
- CSIR Lab
Explanation: The IAM (Bengaluru) under the IAF is the nodal center for aero-medical training and selection of the Gaganyatris.
The 'Service Module' of the Gaganyaan spacecraft provides power through which specific source?
- Liquid thermal
- Nuclear battery
- Fuel cells
- Solar panels
Explanation: The Service Module (SM) is equipped with deployable solar panels to generate power for the orbital module's systems.
Which specialized parachute system will be used to reduce the speed of the Crew Module during final descent?
- Multi-stage chutes
- Supersonic chutes
- Apex cover
- Gliding chutes
Explanation: A sequence of drogue and main parachutes (Aura/Apex system) is used to stabilize and slow the module for splashdown.
What is the primary target for India's human spaceflight program following the successful completion of Gaganyaan?
- Asteroid mining
- Venus mapping
- Lunar landing
- Mars orbit
Explanation: Prime Minister Modi has set a target for India to land an astronaut on the Moon by 2040, using the experience gained from Gaganyaan.
The 'Gagan' system, which provides navigation assistance for the mission, is a joint venture between ISRO and:
- AAI
- C-DAC
- Indian Army
- NIC
Explanation: GAGAN (GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation) is a project implemented by ISRO and the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
Which type of 'shaking' or vibration test is critical to ensure the crew module can withstand launch stresses?
- Centrifuge test
- Thermal vacuum
- Static load
- Acoustic test
Explanation: Acoustic testing simulates the intense sound and vibration environment experienced by the spacecraft during the initial seconds of launch.
What is the primary function of the 'Crew Module' during the terminal phase of the mission?
- Satellite docking
- Orbital maintenance
- Power generation
- Atmospheric re-entry
Explanation: The Crew Module (CM) is the habitable part of the spacecraft that is specifically designed to safely re-enter the Earth's atmosphere.
The Gaganyaan astronauts' suits are equipped with which communication system to talk to the control center?
- Wireless intercom
- Wired tether
- Bluetooth link
- Audio-link
Explanation: The flight suits contain integrated communication headsets that allow wireless communication within the cabin and with the ground.
Which specific satellite system will Gaganyaan rely on for continuous data relay and communication with ground stations?
- IRNSS-1A
- RISAT-2B
- GSAT-31
- IDRSS
Explanation: The Indian Data Relay Satellite System (IDRSS) will provide a continuous tracking and communication link throughout the mission.
Which specialized 'oven' or system will Gaganyatris use to heat their food in microgravity?
- Food heater
- Induction plate
- Thermal bag
- Microwave unit
Explanation: ISRO has developed specialized food heaters designed to work in microgravity without creating convection issues or floating crumbs.
What is the name of the project that involves building an indigenous Indian Space Station by 2035?
- Vishwa Space Hub
- Indo Space Lab
- Gagan Antariksh Kendra
- Bharatiya Antariksh Station
Explanation: Gaganyaan is the first step toward the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS), which India plans to establish by 2035.
What is the name of the female-looking 'half-humanoid' robot developed for the uncrewed test flights?
- Antarikshmitra
- Gaganmitra
- Nabhomitra
- Vyommitra
Explanation: Vyommitra is a humanoid designed to simulate human functions and monitor module parameters during the uncrewed missions.
Which city is the location of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), from where Gaganyaan will be launched?
- Thumba
- Sriharikota
- Trombay
- Mahendragiri
Explanation: Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh is India's primary spaceport for all heavy-lift satellite and human spaceflight launches.
The 'Vikas' engine used in the Gaganyaan mission primarily utilizes which combination of propellants?
- UH25 and N2O4
- Kerosene and Oxygen
- LOX and LH2
- HTPB and Ammonium
Explanation: The Vikas engine is a liquid-fueled engine that uses UH25 (unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine and hydrazine hydrate) as fuel and Nitrogen Tetroxide (N2O4) as the oxidizer.
In the event of an 'off-nominal' landing, the crew module is equipped with which tracking beacon?
- S-band radar
- Radio altimeter
- Laser reflector
- SARSAT beacon
Explanation: The module is equipped with search and rescue beacons to transmit location coordinates to the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite system.
The 'Pad Abort Test' (PAT) is a specific safety trial designed to simulate an emergency during:
- Pre-launch stage
- Cryogenic burn
- Module splashdown
- Orbital re-entry
Explanation: The Pad Abort Test ensures that the crew can be safely moved away from the launch pad in case of an emergency before liftoff.
Which ISRO center is responsible for the development of the CE-20 cryogenic engine used in LVM3?
- SAC Ahmedabad
- IPRC Kanyakumari
- VSSC Thumba
- LPSC Mahendragiri
Explanation: The Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) is the lead center for development of cryogenic and liquid propulsion systems.
Which gas is primarily used as the 'diluent' for oxygen inside the Gaganyaan cabin to reduce fire risk?
- Argon
- Helium
- Nitrogen
- Carbon dioxide
Explanation: A mixture of Oxygen and Nitrogen (similar to Earth's atmosphere) is used to prevent the high fire risk associated with pure oxygen environments.
Which specific launch vehicle has been human-rated and designated for the Gaganyaan mission?
- GSLV Mk II
- SSLV-D2
- LVM3
- PSLV-XL
Explanation: The Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3), previously known as GSLV Mk III, is the chosen vehicle, modified into the 'Human Rated LVM3' (HLVM3).
The 'Crew Module' has a 'blunt body' shape for re-entry primarily to:
- Save weight
- Decrease drag
- Increase lift
- Dissipate heat
Explanation: A blunt-shaped body creates a strong shock wave in front of it, which keeps the hottest part of the compressed air away from the capsule's surface.
Which facility in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, is used for testing the high-thrust liquid engines of Gaganyaan?
- SDSC Centre
- IPRC Centre
- URSC Centre
- VSSC Centre
Explanation: The ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) at Mahendragiri is responsible for the assembly, integration, and testing of liquid engines and stages.
The uncrewed missions preceding the crewed flight are designated as:
- M1 and M2
- T1 and T2
- U1 and U2
- G1 and G2
Explanation: ISRO plans two uncrewed missions, G1 and G2, to validate all systems before the final crewed flight (H1).
Which specialized clothing has been developed by the ISRO for the Gaganyatris to wear during the mission?
- Thermal radiation suit
- Intra-Vehicular suit
- Liquid cooling garment
- Extra-Vehicular suit
Explanation: ISRO has developed the Intra-Vehicular Activity (IVA) suit, which provides pressure protection and life support in case of cabin depressurization.
What is the specific color of the flight suit unveiled by ISRO for the Gaganyaan mission?
- Deep Maroon
- Royal Blue
- Pure White
- Bright Orange
Explanation: Like most IVA suits (including NASA's), the Gaganyaan suit is orange to ensure high visibility against various backgrounds during rescue.
The propellant utilized in the Service Module (SM) for orbital maneuvers is primarily:
- Refined kerosene
- Solid HTPB
- Liquid Oxygen
- Hypergolic liquid
Explanation: The Service Module uses hypergolic bipropellants which ignite spontaneously upon contact, ensuring high reliability for thrusters.
The 'Apex Cover' of the Crew Module is ejected during which phase of the mission?
- Launch ascent
- Parachute deployment
- Orbital burn
- Pre-splashdown
Explanation: The Apex Cover is separated at a specific altitude during re-entry to allow the parachute system to be deployed.
The 'CARE' mission conducted by ISRO in 2014 was a precursor test specifically focusing on:
- Moon landing
- Crew re-entry
- Cryogenic fuel
- Solar observation
Explanation: The Crew Module Atmospheric Re-entry Experiment (CARE) validated the aerodynamic and thermal protection systems of the module.
What is the primary material used for the main structure of the Gaganyaan Crew Module?
- Aluminum alloy
- Carbon fiber
- Stainless steel
- Titanium alloy
Explanation: High-strength Aluminum alloy is used for the primary structure to ensure a balance between weight reduction and structural integrity.
What is the standard atmospheric pressure that will be maintained inside the Gaganyaan Crew Module?
- 0.5 bar
- 2.0 bar
- 1.0 bar
- 1.5 bar
Explanation: The crew module maintains an internal pressure of 1 bar, effectively simulating sea-level atmospheric conditions on Earth.
Which international agency partnered with ISRO for the initial basic training of the four selected Indian astronauts?
Explanation: The four astronauts (Gaganyatris) underwent their foundational spaceflight training at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center through Glavkosmos, Russia.
Which technical feature ensures that the Crew Module maintains a stable orientation during splashdown?
- Uprighting system
- Gyroscope ring
- Inflatable bags
- Apex thrusters
Explanation: The Crew Module Uprighting System (CMUS) uses inflatable bags to ensure the module floats upright in the water after landing.
The 'Mission Control Centre' (MCC) for monitoring the Gaganyaan flight in real-time is located at:
- MCF Hassan
- ISTRAC Bengaluru
- VSSC Kerala
- SDSC Sriharikota
Explanation: The ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC) in Bengaluru hosts the primary mission control facilities.
What is the approximate planned duration of the first crewed mission (H1) of the Gaganyaan programme?
- Ten days
- Three days
- Seven days
- Fourteen days
Explanation: While the design supports longer durations, the initial manned flight is planned for a nominal duration of 3 days.
Which ISRO center is the primary developer of the navigation and guidance software for the mission?
- PRL Ahmedabad
- IISU Thiruvananthapuram
- NRSC Hyderabad
- SAC Ahmedabad
Explanation: The ISRO Inertial Systems Unit (IISU) develops the sensors and navigation systems required for precise flight path control.
What is the approximate re-entry velocity of the Crew Module as it hits the Earth's atmosphere?
- 11.2 km/s
- 7.8 km/s
- 3.5 km/s
- 25.0 km/s
Explanation: The Crew Module re-enters the atmosphere from LEO at approximately orbital velocity, which is around 7.8 km/s.
In the event of an abort during the ascent, the 'Crew Escape System' uses which type of engines?
- Cold gas
- Liquid thrusters
- Solid motors
- Ion thrusters
Explanation: The CES uses a set of high-thrust solid motors to pull the crew module away from the launch vehicle instantly.