French astronaut Pesquet dreams of flying to outer space with an Indian astronaut

French astronaut Thomas Pesquet, and Lt. Gen. AK Bhatt, DG, ISpA at Indian Space Conclave 2023

As India gears up for its inaugural manned mission with Gaganyaan, French astronaut Thomas Pesquet, who spent six months aboard the International Space Station (ISS), expressed his aspiration to go to space alongside an Indian astronaut.

Addressing the Indian Space Conclave organised by Indian Space Association (ISpA) in New Delhi, Pesquet said: "India is on the cusp of achieving the milestone of sending human beings to space through its Gaganyaan mission. The convergence of French and Indian leadership underscores the profound significance of space exploration."

Pesquet, who engaged in space photography during his time at the ISS), mentioned that he captured numerous photographs of India while he was stationed there.

"Space is playing a pivotal role in the battle against climate change, it is evident that our shared future lies among the stars. As rovers continue to pave the way for future interplanetary journeys, we find ourselves at the threshold of limitless possibilities," he added.

As part of the space conclave, Indian Space Association, an industry representing Indian companies working in the space sector, and GIFAS, the French Aerospace Industries Association, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing the understanding of space industry capabilities and increase awareness of business opportunities in France and India.

The MoU will act as an extension to the already flourishing Indo-French relationship in the space sector and augment the industry bodies' membership bases through greater international linkages for the members.

Following the conclave, a 3-day exhibition was organized, featuring 24 exhibitors from prominent space startups and academic institutions. These exhibitors showcased their products and offerings within the space sector. The exhibition was inaugurated by Thierry Mathou, Ambassador-Designate of France in India, and Shekhar Dutt, former Defence Secretary and Governor of Chhattisgarh.