Consider the following statements with reference to the "Gaganyaan Mission" of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO):
I. The mission aims to place astronauts in a geostationary orbit.
II. It comprises two uncrewed flights followed by one crewed mission.
III. The human-rated launch vehicle for the mission is derived from LVM3.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are incorrect?
This section provides a detailed analysis of the statements concerning the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) Gaganyaan Mission. The goal is to identify which of the given statements are incorrect based on known mission details.
The first statement asserts that the Gaganyaan Mission's objective is to place astronauts in a geostationary orbit. This is factually incorrect. ISRO's Gaganyaan program is designed for human spaceflight into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). LEO is typically situated between 160 km and 2,000 km above Earth's surface, whereas a geostationary orbit is significantly farther out, at approximately 35,786 km. Gaganyaan's intended orbit is much closer to Earth to facilitate shorter mission durations and easier crew return. Thus, Statement I is incorrect.
The second statement proposes that the Gaganyaan program consists of two uncrewed missions preceding the main crewed mission. This description accurately reflects the planned mission strategy. ISRO intends to conduct preparatory uncrewed test flights to validate the performance of the launch vehicle, the service module, the crew module, and crucial systems like life support, before undertaking the actual human spaceflight. These test flights are essential for ensuring crew safety and mission success. Therefore, Statement II is correct.
The third statement claims that the launch vehicle designated for Gaganyaan is derived from the LVM3 (Launch Vehicle Mark 3). This is correct. The LVM3, previously known as the GSLV Mk III, is ISRO's most powerful operational rocket. It has been specifically adapted and certified as a Human-Rated Launch Vehicle (HRLV) to meet the stringent safety requirements for carrying astronauts into space for the Gaganyaan mission.
After evaluating each statement:
The question asks to identify the incorrect statement(s). Based on our analysis, only Statement I is incorrect.