For the upcoming Indo-US mission to the International Space Station on Friday, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has chosen Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla as the prime astronaut. Group Captain Shukla will confidently lead the mission, with Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair confidently serving as the backup astronaut.
Captain Shubhanshu Shukla
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla was born on October 10, 1985, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. He completed his education at the National Defence Academy before starting his career with the Indian Air Force (IAF) on June 17, 2006.
He is a Fighter Combat Leader and test pilot with around 2,000 flight hours, flying various aircraft, including the Sukhoi-30MKI, MiG-21, MiG-29, Jaguar, Hawk, Dornier, and An-323.
Group Captain Shukla’s journey to becoming an astronaut is truly inspiring. Despite facing challenges, he seized an opportunity to apply for the National Defence Academy after a friend decided not to apply. His determination and initiative are a testament to his strong character. He joined India’s first crewed space mission, the Gaganyaan Mission, eighteen years later without informing his family.
Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair
Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair, the backup astronaut, is from Thiruvazhiyad, Kerala, born on August 26, 1976. He is also a National Defence Academy student and was awarded the Sword of Honour at the Air Force Academy. He was commissioned on December 19, 1998, in the fighter stream of the IAF.
Group Captain Nair boasts a wealth of experience as a Category A flying instructor and test pilot, having accumulated approximately 3,000 hours of flying time. His proficiency spans various aircraft, including the Sukhoi-30MKI, MiG-21, MiG-29, Hawk, Dornier, and An-32.
India and the US have teamed up for a significant mission to the ISS, involving scientific research and technology experiments onboard. The astronauts will also engage in space outreach activities. The mission will benefit the Indian Human Space Programme and enhance cooperation in human space flight between ISRO and NASA.
The National Mission Assignment Board has selected two ‘Gaganyatris‘ for the mission, one serving as the prime pilot and the other as the backup. The Multilateral Crew Operations Panel (MCOP) will give final approval for the assigned crewmembers to fly to the ISS. The recommended Gaganyatris will begin training for the mission in the first week of August 2024.
ISRO’s Human Space Flight Centre has signed a space flight agreement with the US’ Axiom Space Inc. This is part of a joint ISRO-NASA mission to the space station, announced after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the US last June.
Group Captain Shukla’s selection as the prime astronaut is a proud moment for India. His journey from a high school student during the Kargil War to leading an international space mission is a testament to his dedication and hard work.
The Indo-US mission to the ISS is expected to pave the way for future collaborations between ISRO and NASA. This mission will provide valuable insights and experiences for India’s Human Space Programme and marks a significant milestone in India’s space journey towards achieving greater heights in space exploration.
Editor’s Recommendations
- Don’t Miss it! T Coronae Borealis Spectacular Show, Once in a Lifetime Experience of Star Explosion
- Universe’s Baby Pictures: NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope Will Capture Cosmic Dawn
- Catch the Spectacular Perseid Meteor Shower: Your Ultimate Guide to the 2024 Celestial Show!
- Life in Venus’ Clouds? New Evidence Starts Exciting Debate!
