SAKHI: Lifeline Support for Gaganyaan Crew

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is hurtling towards the historic Gaganyaan mission, its first human spaceflight program scheduled for a three-day Low Earth Orbit (LEO) trip. To ensure the astronaut crew’s safety and well-being during this pioneering mission, the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) has unveiled a groundbreaking app called SAKHI.

SAKHI: An Acronym for All-Encompassing Support

SAKHI, which stands for Space-borne Assistant and Knowledge Hub for Crew Interaction, is more than just an app. It’s a virtual assistant that empowers astronauts by offering crucial support in various mission-critical areas:

• Technical Guru at Your Fingertips: Imagine venturing into space without a massive library of technical manuals. SAKHI eliminates this need by providing instant access to vital information through a secure and user-friendly interface. This includes access to:
  • Training materials – Crew members can revisit pre-mission training modules to refresh their memory on critical procedures.
  • Real-time system schematics – Astronauts can view real-time diagrams of the spacecraft’s various systems, aiding in troubleshooting and maintenance.
  • Emergency protocols – SAKHI provides instant access to step-by-step instructions for handling emergency situations.
• Health Guardian, Going Beyond Vital Signs: Space travel can be physically demanding due to microgravity and radiation exposure. SAKHI acts as a health guardian, constantly monitoring the astronauts’ vital signs such as:
  • Blood pressure
  • Heart rate
  • Oxygen saturation
  • Body temperature
  • Sleep patterns

SAKHI can also prompt astronauts with: * Hydration reminders – Dehydration is a risk in space, and SAKHI ensures astronauts stay adequately hydrated. * Dietary recommendations – The app can suggest personalized meal plans based on individual needs and mission requirements.

This real-time health data allows mission control to intervene promptly if any medical issues arise, ensuring the crew’s well-being throughout the mission.

• Mission Manager: Keeping Everything on Track: Juggling tasks in a confined spaceship can be tricky. SAKHI steps in as a mission manager, enabling astronauts to:
  • Schedule activities – Create and manage personalized to-do lists to ensure mission objectives are met efficiently.
  • Monitor essential resources – Keep track of oxygen, fuel, and other critical resources onboard the spacecraft.
  • Control systems – Perform basic operations on onboard systems through a user-friendly interface, reducing workload and potential for errors.
• Lifeline to Earth: Seamless Communication is Key: Perhaps the most crucial role of SAKHI is facilitating uninterrupted communication. It serves as a lifeline, enabling seamless exchange of information between:
  • The Crew – Astronauts can communicate with each other easily within the spacecraft.
  • Onboard Computer – SAKHI acts as an intermediary between the crew and the spacecraft’s central computer system.
  • Ground Stations – The app ensures real-time communication with mission control back on Earth, allowing for critical updates and support throughout the spaceflight.

A Leap Forward in Indian Space Tech

The development of SAKHI signifies a giant leap forward in Indian space technology. By providing a comprehensive and user-friendly interface, SAKHI empowers astronauts to perform their duties efficiently and reduces the risk of errors during the mission. This innovative app places India at the forefront of spacefaring nations harnessing the power of artificial intelligence for astronaut support.

The Road to Gaganyaan

With SAKHI on board, the Gaganyaan mission is well on its way to becoming a reality. The success of SAKHI paves the way for future Indian space missions, ensuring crew safety and enhancing mission effectiveness. As India sets its sights on the cosmos, SAKHI promises to be a constant companion, guiding its astronauts on their celestial adventures.

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