Relevance: GS Paper III – Science & Technology (Space Technology); Source: The New Indian Express, PIB

ISRO will soon send “Vyommitra,” a humanoid robot, aboard an uncrewed Gaganyaan test flight as part of India’s Human Spaceflight Programme. This mission will precede India’s first manned space mission.

What is Vyommitra

Vyommitra (Sanskrit: Vyoma – space, Mitra – friend) is a half-humanoid robot developed by ISRO to simulate human functions in space before astronauts are onboarded. It can perform simple tasks, monitor environmental parameters, and communicate with mission control.

Key Facts

• Structure: Upper torso humanoid with head and arms; no legs.
  
• Role: Test systems like Environmental Control and Life Support Systems (ECLSS), cabin pressure, microgravity effects, and crew interfaces.
  
• Material: Made of light-weight aluminium alloy to withstand launch conditions.
  
• Mission Context: Will fly aboard an uncrewed Gaganyaan vehicle, designed to carry three astronauts to Low Earth Orbit (~400 km) for about three days in the crewed phase.

Scientific Concept Simplified

• Microgravity Environment: Vyommitra helps assess how spacecraft systems behave in near-weightlessness.
  
• Human-Rating Process: Ensures spacecraft meet safety standards for human flight—robots are used before actual astronauts.
  
• Anthropomorphic Testing: Human-shaped dummies or robots simulate crew presence for realistic system validation.

Policy & Significance

• Strengthens India’s indigenous human spaceflight capability under ISRO and Department of Space.
  
• Aligns with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) by advancing frontier technologies.
  
• Reflects India’s ethical shift towards robotic testing over animal testing in space research.
  

UPSC Prelims Practice Question

1. With reference to ISRO’s humanoid “Vyommitra,” consider the following statements:

1. It is a humanoid robot designed to assist astronauts on the Moon.
   
2. It will test spacecraft systems and life-support mechanisms during uncrewed missions.
   
3. It is part of India’s Human Spaceflight Programme.
   

Which of the above statements are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 3 only

Answer: (b)

One-line Wrap:
Vyommitra marks India’s leap into human spaceflight readiness — combining robotics, safety, and innovation in one mission.