Indian Air Force Officers Shubhanshu Shukla and Cohorts Selected for Gaganyaan Space Mission

Indian Air Force officers, including Shubhanshu Shukla, Prashanth Balakrishnan Nair, Angad Prathap, and Ajit Krishnan, have been designated as astronauts for India’s inaugural crewed space mission, the Gaganyaan Mission, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the prestigious Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre.

The astronauts, who have a background in test piloting, are currently undergoing training for the momentous expedition. Modi praised the choicest four as representing the aspirations of India’s vast populace.

ISRO has recently conducted successful tests on the human readiness of the cryogenic engine, a pivotal component for Gaganyaan Mission. The first unmanned trial, Gaganyaan-1, aimed at verifying technology readiness, is anticipated to launch by the end of 2024.

The crew members will be propelled into space using ISRO’s advanced Liquid Propulsion Module 3 (LVM3) rocket adapted to meet human rating criteria, ensuring a secure journey to outer space. The pivotal CE20 cryogenic engine passed critical tests on February 14, signaling readiness for crewed missions.

Preparation also encompasses developing a sophisticated Environment Control and Life Support System, essential for maintaining crew well-being in the capsule. In recent tests, the crew module and escape systems performed effectively, a reassuring step towards ensuring astronaut safety during the mission.

Shubhanshu Shukla’s journey from Triveninagar, Lucknow, to becoming a chosen astronaut for Gaganyaan reflects his unwavering dedication. The astronaut’s family, including father Shambhu Dayal Shukla and sister Suchi Shukla, expresses immense pride in his achievements.

Another astronaut linked to Uttar Pradesh, Angad Prathap, hailing from Prayagraj, also signifies the state’s contribution to India’s space endeavors. With their rigorous training at establishments like the National Defence Academy and interaction with global space training centers like the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Centre in Russia, the crew stands poised for a historic space journey.