Bengaluru recently buzzed with excitement as the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium hosted an “Astronaut–Student Interaction” program. This event, in partnership with the Karnataka Science and Technology Promotion Society, attracted hundreds of eager school students from across the state. They gathered to listen to Gaganyaan Astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla as he shared his remarkable experiences in space.
Shukla vividly recalled the moment he first spotted Earth from orbit. He described it as breathtaking, unlike anything training could ever prepare him for. “Seeing Earth from this vantage point is a feeling that’s hard to put into words,” he shared. He emphasized that his journey represented the dreams of countless Indians, hoping to inspire young minds everywhere. “There are no limits to what you can achieve,” he said.
Talking about the sheer force of a rocket launch, Shukla explained that even as a fighter pilot, the experience was overwhelming. During liftoff, astronauts reach speeds of about 28,500 kilometers per hour within eight minutes, and in emergencies, the forces can increase dramatically. They must master special techniques to handle these extreme conditions.
Shukla also discussed the physical challenges of space travel. In microgravity, fluids shift to the upper body, astronauts lose muscle mass quickly, and tasks that seem simple on Earth become tougher in space. “When your hand feels several times heavier, pressing a button can be quite the challenge,” he said.
Adapting to zero gravity can be tricky. Shukla humorously admitted that after returning to Earth, he tried to leave a floating laptop in mid-air. This adjustment period highlights how astronauts learn to navigate their new environment, where dropping something means it will float instead of fall.
He also touched on the mental hurdles faced during long missions. Astronauts live in confined spaces, facing alarms for various risks. Since help is light-years away, they train rigorously to manage emergencies independently. “Preparing for long missions is as much about mental strength as physical fitness,” he noted.
Looking ahead, Shukla spoke about India’s growing space ambitions. In 2023, a new policy laid out plans for human space missions, a national space station, and even aspirations for a lunar landing by 2040. He inspired students to see themselves as future contributors to this vision, declaring, “The sky is not the limit for anyone. The future of India in 2047 belongs to you.”
Karnataka’s ministers also highlighted education and scientific growth. Minister for Primary Education Madhu Bangarappa announced plans to expand computer education from the first grade in nearly 900 Karnataka Public Schools. Shukla’s journey served as motivation for students to chase their aspirations.
Meanwhile, Science and Technology Minister N. Boseraju emphasized strengthening the state’s science ecosystem through collaborations among schools, universities, and research institutions. Upcoming programs aim to enhance practical learning for students interested in careers in science and space.
As we move into an era of rapid technological advancements, the event underscored the importance of fostering curiosity and innovation among young learners. With initiatives like these, the future looks bright for aspiring astronauts and scientists in India.
For more insights on India’s space ambitions, check out this report by the Indian Space Research Organisation.
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GAGANYAAN SPACE MISSION, KARNATAKA GOVERNMENT, JAWAHARLAL NEHRU PLANETARIUM, AXIOM 4 SPACE MISSION, SHUBANSHU SHUKLA, INDIA’S SPACE FUTURE IS IN YOUR HANDS: ASTRONAUT SHUBHANSHU SHUKLA URGES STUDENTS TO AIM HIGH
