India’s first astronaut, Rakesh Sharma, now lives in Coonoor, enjoys golf and gardening and helps train Gaganyaan astronauts.
India’s first astronaut – Rakesh Sharma
India’s first astronaut, Rakesh Sharma, took a space trip on April 3, 1984 on the Soviet spacecraft Soyuz T-11. During this mission, he spent 7 days, 21 hours and 40 minutes on the Salyut 7 space station, conducting various scientific and technological research, including 43 experimental meetings in the fields of biomedical and remote sensing.
After retiring from the Indian Air Force in 1990, Sharma joined Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) as a test pilot, which contributed to the development of India’s aviation. He has taken a step back from his active flight in recent years and now lives in the quiet town of Coonoor, Tamil Nadu. Despite his retirement, Sharma is still actively involved in India’s space efforts. He served on the National Space Advisory Committee for the ISRO iSro Gaganyaan Mission in India’s ambitious Human Space Program.
His experience is priceless, especially considering that four astronauts were selected to be trained at the Yuri Gagarin Astronaut Training Centre in Russia, the same facility where Sharma trained its historical mission. In his personal life, Sharma enjoys activities such as golf, gardening, yoga and reading. He continues to participate in India’s space program and is committed to guiding the next generation of astronauts to highlight his lasting impact on the nation’s journey into space.
