Indian Air Force Pilots Selected for Historic Mission to International Space Station, Ready To ‘Touch Space With Glory’
News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/3rd August 2024
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has recently announced an exciting development as Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and Group Captain Prashanth Nair are chosen to embark on a groundbreaking journey to the International Space Station (ISS). This prestigious selection marks a significant milestone for India’s space aspirations, with both pilots set to join the upcoming Axiom-4 mission.
Group Captain Shukla, who has been selected as the prime astronaut for the mission, brings a wealth of experience to the role. Born on October 10, 1985, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Shukla is an accomplished test pilot with an impressive track record. A graduate of the National Defence Academy, he was commissioned into the Indian Air Force on June 17, 2006. His flying experience spans approximately 2,000 hours, during which he has operated a diverse range of aircraft, including the Sukhoi-30MKI, MiG-21, MiG-29, Jaguar, Hawk, Dornier, and An-32. His selection as the prime Mission Pilot highlights his extensive expertise and readiness for this historic space journey.
In addition to Shukla, Group Captain Prashanth Nair has been appointed as the backup astronaut for the mission. Born on August 26, 1976, in Thiruvazhiyad, Kerala, Nair’s distinguished career also reflects exceptional skill and dedication. An alumnus of the National Defence Academy and a recipient of the Sword of Honour at the Air Force Academy, he was commissioned into the IAF on December 19, 1998. With approximately 3,000 hours of flying experience, Nair has piloted a variety of aircraft, including the Su-30MKI, MiG-21, MiG-29, Hawk, Dornier, and An-32. His roles as a Category A flying instructor and a test pilot underscore his qualifications for this significant mission. Additionally, his experience includes serving as a DS at the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, and the Flying Instructors School, Tambaram, where he has also commanded a premier Su-30 squadron.
The selection of Shukla and Nair for the Axiom-4 mission is a notable achievement for India’s space program. This announcement comes over a year after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the US, where he highlighted India’s intention to send an astronaut to the ISS. The mission not only demonstrates India’s growing capabilities in space exploration but also represents a significant collaboration with international partners.
The IAF’s congratulatory message to the selected pilots, stating “After touching the sky with glory, it’s time for the #IAF to touch space with glory,” reflects the pride and excitement surrounding this milestone. As the mission approaches, the training and preparations for Shukla and Nair will be closely followed, marking an important chapter in India’s space exploration history. Their journey to the ISS will be a testament to their exceptional skills and the advancements of India’s space program on the global stage.
