Meet Shubhanshu Shukla: The astronaut chosen for India’s first human spaceflight mission, Gaganyaan

IAF Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla

In what marks a major leap for India's space ambitions, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will conduct vital space experiments during the country’s first human spaceflight mission, Gaganyaan. Announced by Union Minister Jitendra Singh, the mission is set for early 2027 and aims to demonstrate India’s capability to send humans into space and safely return them to Earth.

Shukla, one of the four astronauts selected for Gaganyaan, will examine how the human body reacts in space. His research includes studying physical, cognitive and physiological changes in microgravity. According to the minister, this research will shape future long-duration missions beyond Earth’s orbit.

Science in Space

The astronaut will also explore how the body’s muscles weaken in space. He will test medical responses that may reduce such damage. Another key part of his work involves studying tardigrades, tiny resilient creatures that survive in extreme environments. Shukla will look at how these organisms live, recover and reproduce in space, providing insights into life’s chances beyond Earth.

Minister Singh called this role a matter of national pride. He said Shukla’s defined scientific duties reflect India’s growing role in global missions. The Minister also confirmed that Group Captain Prasanth Nair, Angad Pratap, and Ajit Krishnan will join Shukla as the Gaganyaan crew. Group Captain P.B. Nair has been named backup astronaut for the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station.

It is a matter of pride for all Indians that Shubhanshu Shukla will be part of this international space mission. His role will be just as significant as anyone else involved.While Rakesh Sharma was the first Indian astronaut to go to space, it was a Soviet mission, with pic.twitter.com/su4vYT0qzr
Dr Jitendra Singh (@DrJitendraSingh) June 3, 2025

India’s Expanding Space Vision

Union Minister Singh said the plan to send an Indian astronaut to the ISS was discussed during Prime Minister Modi’s US visit. He credited policy changes since 2014 for opening Sriharikota to the public and boosting private space efforts.

The Gaganyaan trial phases are currently under way, the Minister said. He added that such missions are shaping India’s push for independence in space technology. He said the space economy is set to grow from $8 billion to $44 billion, in line with the Viksit Bharat @2047 vision.

Broader Tech and Research Push

Speaking beyond space, Singh mentioned India’s plans for deep-sea exploration. He said the Deep Ocean Mission would tap into unused marine wealth. On clean energy, he pointed to increased funding for nuclear power, including work on Bharat Small Modular Reactors.

On aviation, he highlighted how flying has become more affordable. He said CSIR-NAL is developing a trainer aircraft and expanding e-Hansa production with private firms.

Singh concluded that India is entering a new scientific chapter. From space to sea and sky, he said, the country is building a strong future with global collaborations and homegrown innovation.