Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla Challenges Students to Compete for Future Moon Missions

Shubhanshu Shukla engaged with students during the 'Astronaut - Student Interaction' event at Nehru Planetarium in Bengaluru.

In Bengaluru, Indian astronaut and Gaganyatri Shubhanshu Shukla encouraged students to pursue ambitious goals of establishing a space station and achieving lunar landings.

The IAF Group Captain expressed curiosity about whether a male or female Indian would be the first to step on the lunar surface, playfully challenging the aspiring astronauts to compete with him for this historic opportunity.

"India is following its unique trajectory in human space missions, guided by the space policy introduced in 2023. This policy clearly outlines our nation's commitment to execute mission Gaganyaan, which involves sending humans to space and bringing them back safely," explained the IAF test pilot, who is part of the Gaganyaan mission, during his student interaction.

Gaganyaan represents India's first human spaceflight program.

"We are also developing our own Bharatiya Antariksh Station, currently in the planning phase, with the ultimate goal of achieving an Indian lunar landing by 2040," Shukla added.

"I believe one of you might become the person who sets foot on the moon. Will it be a he or she? Remember, I'm still here and not retiring, so you'll need to compete with me. We'll be in competition for the moon journey," he told the enthusiastic audience.

Highlighting the significance of this era, he remarked, "This is an extraordinary time to be in India. We are launching from our own soil, using our own launch vehicles and capsules, with Indians venturing into space and returning. It's truly a magnificent period in our nation's history."

Emphasizing India's promising future, he expressed happiness at seeing the growing enthusiasm surrounding the country's space sector.

Shukla committed to remaining involved in future projects, stating that this engagement forms part of his core responsibilities.

The astronaut emphasized the vision of transforming India into a developed nation under 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047, expressing confidence that this target will be achieved.

He called upon students to actively participate in this national journey, encouraging them to see themselves as the individuals who will transform India into Viksit Bharat by 2047, reminding them that "it will be your time, not ours."