Produced by: Tarun Mishra
Prime Minister Modi revealed the identities of the four Indian Air Force Officers who will embark on the historic Gaganyaan Mission as the first Indians to venture into space from Indian soil.
The selected astronauts include Group Captain Prashanth Balakrishnan, Group Captain Ajith Krishnan, Group Captain Angad Pratap, and Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla, all from the Indian Air Force.
Prime Minister Modi visited the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) in Thiruvananthapuram to assess the advancements of the Gaganyaan mission and interacted with Vyomitra, a humanoid set to precede human astronauts in the crew capsule.
The Gaganyaan mission aims to transport a crew of three astronauts into low Earth orbit, positioning India as the fourth nation globally, after the US, Russia, and China, to independently conduct manned space missions.
The spacecraft designed for the Gaganyaan mission incorporates cutting-edge technology to ensure the safety and success of the mission, equipped with life support and communication systems tailored for human space travel.
The selection and training process for Gaganyaan astronauts have been rigorous, encompassing intensive training in space navigation, survival skills, and simulated space missions to prepare them for the challenges of space exploration.
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated key space facilities, including the PSLV Integration Facility, Semi-cryogenic Integrated Engine and Stage Test facility at Mahendragiri, and the Trisonic Wind Tunnel at VSSC.
The newly inaugurated PSLV Integration Facility aims to enhance the frequency of PSLV launches and accommodate launches of mini-PSLV and small satellite launch vehicles. Additionally, the Semi-cryogenic Integrated Engine and Stage Test facility at IPRC Mahendragiri will boost payload capability through the development of semi-cryogenic engines and stages.