Thiruvananthapuram: Prime Minister Narendra Modi conferred the coveted Astronaut wings to the four selected astronauts who will be representing India in its maiden human spaceflight mission, Gaganyaan. The announcement was made as a part of India’s ambitious foray into space exploration, demonstrating the country’s growing prowess in the field. The Prime Minister made the announcement at Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) in Thiruvananthapuram urging everyone to applause for and give a standing ovation to the astronauts.
The Indian astronauts selected for the Gaganyaan mission are: Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair, Group Captain Ajit Krishnan, Group Captain Angad Pratap, and Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla
The Gaganyaan project, a flagship initiative of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), aims to showcase India’s capability for human spaceflight. The selected crew members will be launched into an approximately 400 km Low Earth Orbit from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The mission is set to last for three days, during which the astronauts will conduct various experiments and observations before safely returning to Earth by landing in Indian sea waters.
The conferment of Astronaut wings by Prime Minister Modi marks a significant step in India’s space journey, emphasizing the country’s commitment to pushing boundaries and achieving new milestones. The Gaganyaan mission has garnered widespread attention and anticipation, symbolizing India’s entry into the league of nations with human spaceflight capabilities.
The crew members, Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair, Group Captain Ajit Krishnan, Group Captain Angad Pratap, and Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla, represent the culmination of years of dedication, training, and expertise in their respective fields.
As the Gaganyaan project unfolds, India’s scientific and technological community is poised to achieve a remarkable feat, demonstrating its ability to undertake complex space missions. The successful execution of the Gaganyaan mission will not only elevate India’s standing in the global space community but will also inspire future generations to aspire for the stars.
The nation eagerly awaits the historic launch of the Gaganyaan mission, as these astronauts embark on a journey that will etch their names in the annals of Indian space exploration. The conferment of Astronaut wings by Prime Minister Modi serves as a testament to the dedication and commitment of these individuals who will carry the dreams of a nation beyond Earth’s boundaries.