Prime Minister Narendra Modi revealed the identities of the four astronauts selected for India’s inaugural human space mission, Gaganyaan, set for launch in 2024-25. The astronauts undergoing rigorous training include Group Captains Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair, Angad Pratap, Ajit Krishnan, and Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla. The announcement took place at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair, born in Thiruvazhiyad, Kerala, on August 26, 1976, is a distinguished National Defence Academy alumnus and received the Sword of Honour at the Air Force Academy. Commissioned in 1998, he is a Category A flying instructor and a test pilot with over 3,000 flying hours, commanding a premier Su-30 squadron.
Ajit Krishnan, born in Chennai on April 19, 1982, is another National Defence Academy graduate and was commissioned in 2003. With the President’s Gold Medal and Sword of Honour at the Air Force Academy, Krishnan is a flying instructor and test pilot, boasting nearly 2,900 flying hours and diverse aircraft experience.
Angad Pratap, born in Prayagraj on July 17, 1982, joined the fighter stream of the IAF in 2004. A National Defence Academy alumnus, he is a flying instructor and test pilot with around 2,000 flying hours, flying various aircraft, including Su-30 MKI, MiG-21, MiG-29, and more.
Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla, born in Lucknow on October 10, 1985, was commissioned in the IAF’s fighter stream in 2006. An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Shukla is a fighter combat leader and test pilot, accumulating approximately 2,000 flying hours across different aircraft.
All four astronauts bring a wealth of experience, including training as flying instructors and test pilots, flying a range of advanced aircraft. The prime minister’s announcement marks a significant milestone as India progresses towards achieving its ambitious Gaganyaan mission, showcasing the country’s prowess in space exploration. The astronauts’ profiles underscore their dedication and accomplishments, instilling confidence in India’s space endeavors.
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