India has announced the selection of two astronauts, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair, for the upcoming Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS). This mission represents a significant step in strengthening human spaceflight cooperation between ISRO and NASA, as well as advancing India’s own human space program.
Mission Details
Primary and Backup Pilots: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as the primary mission pilot, while Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair will act as the backup mission pilot.
Training: Both astronauts will undergo training in the United States starting the first week of August.
Role: During the Axiom-4 mission, they will perform scientific research, technology demonstration experiments, and participate in space outreach activities.
Crew Composition
Commander: Peggy Whitson (USA)
Pilot: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla (India)
Mission Specialists: SÅ‚awosz Uznanski (Poland) and Tibor Kapu (Hungary)
Impact on Indian Space Program
Benefits: The experience gained from this mission will enhance India’s human spaceflight capabilities and bolster collaboration between ISRO and NASA.
Gaganyaan Mission: This mission is a precursor to the Gaganyaan mission, which aims to demonstrate India’s human spaceflight capability with a planned three-day orbit and safe return.
Training for Gaganyaan
Candidates: Four test pilots from the Indian Air Force have been selected for Gaganyaan.
Facility: Primary training is underway at ISRO’s Astronaut Training Facility in Bengaluru.
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