VYOMMITRA – INDIA’S HUMANOID ROBOT FOR GAGANYAAN MISSION

Current Context : The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will send its humanoid robot Vyommitra aboard the first uncrewed Gaganyaan mission in December 2025, to test life-support systems and onboard safety before sending astronauts.

ABOUT VYOMMITRA

• Meaning – Derived from Sanskrit: “Vyoma” (space) + “Mitra” (friend).
• Type – Half-humanoid robot with head, torso, and arms, but no legs.
• Developed By – Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), Kerala.
• Capabilities –
  • Equipped with AI and environmental sensors.
  • Can operate control panels, monitor oxygen, CO₂ levels, and simulate human reactions.
  • Interacts in Hindi and English, providing responses like a co-passenger.

ROLE IN GAGANYAAN MISSION

• Will fly aboard Gaganyaan-1 (uncrewed mission) to validate systems in microgravity.
• Tests life support, avionics, environmental control, and crew module safety.
• Serves as a bridge between robotic and human space missions.

TECHNICAL FEATURES

• Built with high-strength aluminium alloys to withstand launch pressure.
• Designed with movable joints for realistic movement.
• Equipped with speech and sensory systems for real-time data relay.

TIMELINE

• 2025 declared as the “Gaganyaan Year” by ISRO.
• Uncrewed mission with Vyommitra – December 2025.
• Crewed flight expected by 2027.