In a groundbreaking development for India’s space ambitions, the country is set to send its first astronaut to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of a collaborative mission with the United States. This historic journey is expected to take place before the end of 2024, marking a significant leap in India’s human spaceflight capabilities.
The announcement came during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the US in 2023, where NASA and ISRO finalized plans for this joint mission. The Indian astronaut, whose name is yet to be officially disclosed, is currently undergoing advanced training in the United States in preparation for the voyage.
This mission is seen as a stepping stone toward India’s larger human spaceflight program, Gaganyaan, which aims to send Indian astronauts into low-Earth orbit using indigenous technology. The collaboration with NASA is expected to strengthen bilateral space cooperation and open doors for more advanced joint missions in the future.
Experts believe the mission will not only enhance India’s standing in the global space community but also inspire a new generation of scientists and engineers.
