New Delhi- The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is poised to make history this December by launching Vyommitra — India’s first humanoid robot designed to fly aboard the Gaganyaan mission and serve as an intelligent companion in space. This semi-humanoid robot will test critical systems, simulate human functions, and pave the way for India’s maiden crewed spaceflight.
Unveiled in early 2020, Vyommitra’s name combines the Sanskrit words “Vyoma” (space) and “Mitra” (friend), meaning “friend in space.” Equipped with advanced sensors, voice recognition, and decision-making algorithms, Vyommitra can communicate, operate spacecraft controls, and monitor environmental conditions, acting as a vital intermediary between astronauts and mission control.
Vyommitra’s mission is to replicate human physiological responses and perform tasks autonomously or in sync with ground teams — ensuring all systems respond reliably before Indian astronauts, affectionately called ‘vyomanauts,’ embark on their historic journey to low-Earth orbit, scheduled for early 2027.
ISRO Chief V Narayanan confirmed that Vyommitra’s development is in its advanced stages. Following a successful uncrewed flight with Vyommitra this December, two additional uncrewed missions will follow, setting the stage for India’s first crewed space mission.
More than a robot, Vyommitra represents a significant leap in India’s indigenous space technology, blending robotics, artificial intelligence, and human spaceflight expertise. Her technology could also find future applications in satellites, planetary rovers, and lunar habitats, marking a new chapter in space exploration.