Rakesh Sharma turns 77: India’s First Astronaut who paved way for future space missions

Rakesh Sharma the first Indian astronaut who went to space. (Image: Canva)

• Rakesh Sharma became the first Indian in space on Soyuz T-11 in 1984.
• He spent nearly 8 days in orbit, conducting experiments and photographing Earth.
• His mission inspired India's space programme and future astronauts.

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13th January marks the birthday of first Indian in space. Rakesh Sharma went to space in 1984. He flew aboard the Soviet Soyuz T‑11 spacecraft for 7 days. During the mission, he spent 7 days, 21 hours and 40 minutes in orbit.

He took photographs of Earth and conducted scientific experiments in space. He famously said, “Saare jahan se accha” when asked about India. His mission instantly became a landmark moment for Indian space history.

Early Life and Rigorous Training

Rakesh Sharma was born on 13 January 1949 in Patiala, Punjab. He joined the Indian Air Force and trained as a fighter pilot. In preparation for spaceflight, he studied Russian and scientific disciplines intensively.

He joined the Indian Air Force and trained as a fighter pilot. (Image: X/@DPrashanthNair)

He trained at Star City in the Soviet Union for months. Training included zero-gravity simulations, survival exercises and technical drills daily. Only a few global candidates are selected for such elite missions.

Rakesh Sharma's Historic Space Mission

Sharma launched aboard Soyuz T‑11 in April 1984 with Soviet cosmonauts. The mission was part of the Soviet Interkosmos programme supporting international astronauts. He conducted experiments in life sciences, astronomy and Earth observation from orbit.

The mission demonstrated India’s potential to participate in complex space programmes. His achievement inspired a generation of Indian scientists and aerospace engineers. It showed the world that India could contribute to global space research.

3 April 1984 was the day India officially expanded its neighbourhood — thanks to Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who took the nation to space and proved that our dreams had no atmospheric limit. Ever since sir, you have been a constant reminder that courage, determination, and a… pic.twitter.com/xGGZPnSsQX

— Shubhanshu Shukla (@gagan_shux) January 13, 2026

Opening New Paths for India’s Space Programme

Rakesh Sharma’s journey paved the way for India’s independent space missions. It motivated the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to accelerate satellite programmes. His success influenced projects such as Aryabhata, INSAT series and Chandrayaan missions.

It highlighted India’s human resource capabilities for long-duration space activities. The mission created a roadmap for developing future Indian astronauts and missions. Rakesh Sharma’s flight became a symbol of India’s ambitions in space exploration.

Legacy and Inspiration for every India

Rakesh Sharma’s achievements marked India’s entry into human spaceflight successfully. He inspired ISRO’s human spaceflight programme, now aiming for Gaganyaan missions. His iconic phrase and courage continue symbolising India’s pride in science.

Rakesh Sharma’s mission proved that perseverance, training and skill yield historic results. He remains a guiding example for India’s growing aerospace ambitions. His life illustrates how one pioneer can open new paths for millions.