ISRO’s Vyommitra – India’s First Humanoid Space Robot

India is poised to achieve milestone in December 2025. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will launch Vyommitra, the country’s first humanoid robot, into space. This robot will play important role in the Gaganyaan mission, India’s maiden human spaceflight programme. Vyommitra will test spacecraft environments and systems before astronauts embark on their journey.
Introduction to Vyommitra
Vyommitra is a semi-humanoid robot developed by ISRO. The name combines two Sanskrit words – Vyoma meaning space and Mitra meaning friend. It is designed to be an intelligent companion for astronauts. The robot can communicate, perform mechanical tasks, and simulate human physiological responses. Vyommitra’s role is to validate crew module systems and ensure safety in human spaceflight.
Role in Gaganyaan Mission
Vyommitra will accompany uncrewed test flights of the Gaganyaan mission. It will operate control panels, communicate with ground stations, and monitor cabin conditions such as temperature, humidity, and oxygen levels. The robot will perform switch operations and system checks. It will also deliver real-time status updates. By mimicking human responses, Vyommitra helps ground teams study spacecraft behaviour under human-like conditions.
Technological Features
Vyommitra is equipped with advanced sensors and voice recognition systems. Its AI module enables limited decision-making, allowing it to respond to routine events or anomalies during flight. This autonomy is vital for future deep-space missions where communication delays may occur. The robot’s design balances functionality with human-like appearance and behaviour, enhancing interaction and testing accuracy.
Development and Future Prospects
ISRO announced that Vyommitra’s development is at an advanced stage. The first uncrewed mission with Vyommitra is scheduled for December 2025. Two more uncrewed missions will follow before sending astronauts, or ‘vyomanauts’, in early 2027. Vyommitra represents India’s progress in indigenous human-rated space technology. Its technology could extend to satellites, planetary rovers, and lunar habitats. Eventually, Vyommitra may assist astronauts in complex tasks in microgravity environments.