Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday revealed the names of the four Indian Air Force (IAF) pilots chosen for the Gaganyaan mission, India's first human spaceflight endeavor.
Group Captains Prashanth Balakrishnan, Ajith Krishnan, Angad Pratap, and Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla, have undergone arduous training both in Russia and at India's own ISRO training facility, preparing meticulously for the challenges that lie above Earth's boundaries.
PM Modi lauded the astronauts, stating, "These are not just four names, but forces that will take the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians to space."
"We are witnessing another historic journey at Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre," remarked the Prime Minister, underlining the significance of the moment.
He further stressed the significance of the mission, highlighting India's potential to become the fourth nation to achieve independent human spaceflight.
The Gaganyaan spacecraft, designed for a three-member crew, incorporates advanced technology to ensure mission success.
The astronauts are presently undergoing comprehensive training encompassing space navigation, survival techniques, and simulated missions to equip them for the challenges of space travel.
During his visit to VSSC, PM Modi not only revealed the names of the Gaganyaan astronauts but also engaged with Vyomitra, a humanoid set to precede the astronauts in journeying aboard the Gaganyaan Mission.
The inauguration of the PSLV Integration Facility, in particular, aims to ramp up the frequency of PSLV launches, facilitating a surge from 6 to 15 launches annually.
Furthermore, the Semi-cryogenic Integrated Engine and Stage Test facility promises to augment payload capabilities, thus bolstering India's stature in the realm of space exploration.
The Gaganyaan mission, a landmark endeavor aimed at ferrying a crew of three astronauts into low Earth orbit, holds the promise of propelling India into the league of nations capable of independent human spaceflight.
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