First Indian Astronaut in Space After 40 Years: Jitendra Singh
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Synopsis
India is set to launch astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla into space next month, marking a historic event 40 years after Rakesh Sharma's 1984 flight. This mission highlights India's commitment to space exploration and global partnerships, as well as the dedication of ISRO towards future crewed missions.
Key Takeaways
- Shubhanshu Shukla to fly to ISS in May
- First Indian astronaut in space since Rakesh Sharma
- Significant milestone for ISRO
- Collaboration with Axiom Space
- Focus on operational readiness and global integration
New Delhi, April 18 (NationPress) India is set to launch an astronaut into space next month, marking a milestone 40 years after Rakesh Sharma’s legendary 1984 mission aboard a Soviet Soyuz spacecraft, announced Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, on Friday.
Singh revealed that Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force is completely ready to embark on a journey to the International Space Station (ISS) next month as part of Axiom Space’s Ax-4 mission.
“India is poised for its next space achievement,” Singh stated, highlighting the significance of the forthcoming human spaceflight alongside a series of vital ISRO missions.
This mission will signify the first Indian's visit to the ISS and will make Shukla the first Indian to venture into space in over four decades since Rakesh Sharma.
The Minister made this announcement following a high-level meeting aimed at reviewing major upcoming plans of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
Singh emphasized that the collaboration with global partners and the strategic momentum behind projects like Gaganyaan illustrate India’s dedication to becoming a world leader in space technology.
He noted that these initiatives are not merely scientific but also resonate with the vision of a developed and self-reliant India.
ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan stated that Shukla is thoroughly prepared for this mission, which is anticipated to furnish invaluable hands-on experience for India's future crewed missions, including the Gaganyaan project.
A decorated test pilot with the IAF, Shukla was selected under ISRO’s Human Spaceflight Program (HSP) and ranks among the top candidates for the Gaganyaan mission, India’s inaugural indigenous crewed orbital flight.
His journey on the Ax-4 mission is expected to deliver essential hands-on experience in spaceflight operations, launch protocols, microgravity adaptation, and emergency preparedness—key elements for India’s crewed space aspirations.
What distinguishes Shukla’s mission is its strategic significance. Unlike the symbolic implications of India’s first human spaceflight, this mission focuses on operational readiness and global integration. His involvement highlights India’s expanding engagement in public-private international partnerships in space and its determination to become an influential player in human space exploration.
