First Batch of Crew Module Recovery Divers Completes Training for Gaganyaan Mission

Kochi, India – In a significant milestone for India’s ambitious Gaganyaan mission, the first batch of crew recovery divers has successfully completed Phase-1 of their training at the Indian Navy’s Water Survival Training Facility (WSTF) in Kochi. The highly skilled team, composed of Indian Naval Divers and Marine Commandos, underwent rigorous training to master the recovery of the crew module in various challenging sea conditions.

Over the course of two intensive weeks, the training program encompassed comprehensive instruction on mission protocols, emergency medical procedures, and familiarization with different aircraft and their specialized rescue equipment. This crucial training phase also served to validate the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) jointly developed by the Indian Navy and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

On the final day of training, Dr. Mohan M, Director of the Human Space Flight Centre at ISRO, witnessed a remarkable recovery demonstration and engaged in an interactive session with the accomplished team. Impressed by their competence and dedication, Dr. Mohan M expressed confidence in their ability to handle the challenging recovery missions that lie ahead.

With their training at the WSTF now concluded, the team will play a pivotal role in the recovery of upcoming test launches planned by ISRO in the months to come. As the Gaganyaan mission propels India closer to its aspirations of manned space exploration, the successful completion of this training phase marks a significant step forward in realizing the nation’s space ambitions.