SOURCE: AFI
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to make history as it prepares to launch Vyommitra, a humanoid robot, into space. The mission’s primary objective is to assess the safety of spacecraft for future human spaceflight.
Designed and developed by ISRO’s Thiruvananthapuram unit, Vyommitra’s skull is a marvel of engineering. Weighing in at a mere 800 grams and measuring 200 mm x 220 mm, the skull is crafted from a high-strength aluminum alloy to withstand the extreme pressures and vibrations experienced during space travel.
Resembling the upper human body, Vyommitra boasts movable arms, face, and neck. Equipped with an array of sensors, the humanoid will be capable of performing human-like functions and collecting valuable data on the impacts of spaceflight on the human body.
According to Padma Kumar E S, director of the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IISSU), “This half-humanoid simulates the anthropomorphic features of the upper torso of a human body and will primarily demonstrate operations such as Crew Console related tasks. The skull is designed to withstand the vibrational loads experienced during the launch.”
With multiple degrees of freedom, Vyommitra’s parts will be able to move in various directions, mimicking human movements. This flexibility will allow researchers to study how the human body responds to the unique conditions of space, such as microgravity and radiation.
As ISRO prepares for Vyommitra’s historic journey, the world watches with anticipation. The mission is expected to provide crucial insights into the challenges and opportunities of human space exploration, paving the way for future crewed missions to the Moon and beyond.