A Giant Leap for India? Rakesh Sharma Weighs in on Mars, Moon & Gaganyaan

Image Source: Times Now

India’s first astronaut, Rakesh Sharma, recently shared his insights on deep space exploration, emphasizing the global collaboration needed to make the Moon and Mars habitable. In an exclusive conversation, Sharma discussed India’s space advancements, the Gaganyaan mission, and the future of human spaceflight.

1. India’s Role in Deep Space Exploration

Sharma highlighted that exploring the Moon is beyond the capability of any single nation, urging international cooperation for sustainable space colonization.
He praised ISRO’s contributions, stating that what ISRO has done for India, nations can collectively do for the world.
The astronaut stressed that the ultimate goal of space research is to make extraterrestrial environments habitable.

2. Gaganyaan Mission & India’s Next Astronauts

Sharma, a member of the Gaganyaan advisory council, confirmed that a shortlist of Gagannauts—Indian Air Force pilots—has been finalized.
He assured that India will only launch once fully prepared, ensuring mission success and astronaut safety.
The announcement comes as Shubhanshu Shukla prepares for his spaceflight, marking India’s next step in human space exploration.

3. Shubhanshu Shukla’s Upcoming Space Mission

Shukla’s Axiom Space mission to the ISS has been postponed to June 10, launching aboard SpaceX’s Falcon-9 rocket from Kennedy Space Center.
The mission, originally scheduled for May 29, was rescheduled twice before settling on the new date.
Shukla will carry a special surprise gift to space in honor of Rakesh Sharma, celebrating India’s space legacy.

Sources: MSN, Times Now News