THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Four decades after Rakesh Sharma’s landmark voyage into space, another Indian is poised to make history. On Wednesday, Shubhanshu Shukla will begin his space journey aboard the Dragon capsule on a Falcon 9 rocket, carrying with him the dreams and aspirations of 140 crore Indians.

The mission symbolises not only national pride but also the growing ambitions of ISRO and the Indian government, as India moves steadily toward realising its long-standing goal of building its own space station.

India spends Rs 550 crore on mission

• India has spent Rs 550 crore on Shubhanshu’s journey.
• He will spend two weeks aboard the space station.
• The mission is commanded by Peggy Whitson, a highly experienced astronaut. Two other international crew members—Slawosz Wisniewski (Poland) and Tibor Kapu (Hungary)—will accompany him.

Supporting the Gaganyaan Mission
This journey also serves a strategic role in India’s broader space program. Shukla carries a set of technical assessments to evaluate conditions and requirements for Gaganyaan, India’s upcoming human spaceflight mission. The payload includes scientific materials for in-orbit experimentation.

Adding a personal and cultural touch, Shukla’s food kit includes Indian favourites like halwa and mango juice, ensuring that a bit of home travels with him beyond the atmosphere.