What is the status of ISROs space capsule recovery programme?
The design phase is over, it is now under development. It is proposed to launch this space capsule by a PSLV. It will be a 500-kilogramme capsule, shaped aerodynamically, with a section where we can put in some instruments for micro gravity experiments. We are planning to do some material processing in that capsule area. Then we will have instruments for telemetry, command control and so on. When you try to bring a capsule like this back, after orbiting, you have to reorient the spacecraft, use the off board propulsion to break the velocity, and then slowly bring it down. This whole process of de-orbiting and bringing back is essentially a very tricky portion of the mission, because the spacecraft experiences very high temperatures like any re-entry vehicle. We need to develop thermal tiles and thermal protections: design and development of these is going on. I estimate that by the end of next year, or by early 2005, we should be able to fly this instrument. What is your opinion about
