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India’s first civilian space traveler, Gopichand Thotakura, returned to the country on Monday, August 26, 2024, to a warm reception in New Delhi. He has made history as the second Indian citizen to journey into space, following Rakesh Sharma, who flew to space in 1984 as an Indian Air Force pilot.
Thotakura was part of the six-member crew of the New Shepard-25 (NS-25) mission, conducted by Blue Origin, the space company founded by Amazon’s Jeff Bezos. “This moment has been long anticipated. I am thrilled to be back home and to represent India in this milestone. It’s a proud moment for the country,” the US-based entrepreneur shared with ANI.
He also discussed the potential for more ordinary people to experience space travel. “I believe space tourism is the future,” he continued. “I am very excited for others to have the opportunity to explore space with Origin or any other space organization.” Mr. Thotakura mentioned, “I am looking forward to reuniting with my parents and grandparents. Everyone around me is even more excited.”