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Rakesh Sharma: First Indian to travel to space

January 13, 1949
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Rakesh Sharma. File
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Rakesh Sharma, born on January 13, 1949, in Patiala, Punjab, is a former Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot and astronaut, who holds the distinction of being the first Indian to travel to space. His historic journey aboard the Soviet spacecraft Soyuz T-11 in 1984 not only made him a national hero but also showcased India's capabilities on the global stage in space exploration.

Rakesh Sharma grew up with a passion for flying and adventure. He attended St George’s Grammar School in Hyderabad and later pursued his undergraduate education at Nizam’s College. His dream of becoming a pilot led him to join the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA), where he graduated with honours and chose the Indian Air Force as his branch of service.

Commissioned into the IAF in 1970 as a test pilot, Sharma quickly established himself as a skilled and fearless aviator. He flew various aircraft during his career, including MiG fighter jets. By the late 1970s, his expertise and reputation as a test pilot had earned him several accolades and promotions within the IAF.

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In 1982, India and the Soviet Union signed an agreement for collaborative space exploration, including an opportunity for an Indian astronaut to join a Soviet space mission. Rakesh Sharma was selected from a pool of candidates after rigorous physical and psychological training.

On April 2, 1984, Sharma, along with Soviet cosmonauts Yuri Malyshev and Gennady Strekalov, launched aboard Soyuz T-11 from the Baikonur Cosmodrome. The mission was part of the Intercosmos programme, which aimed to foster cooperation between the Soviet Union and allied nations in space exploration.

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During the eight-day mission aboard the Salyut 7 space station, Sharma conducted scientific experiments related to remote sensing and materials science. He also participated in studies on the effects of space travel on the human body. His cheerful demeanour and professionalism impressed his Soviet counterparts.

In a memorable conversation with the then Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi, during the mission, when asked how India looked from space, Sharma famously replied, “Saare Jahan Se Achha” (Better than the entire world). This patriotic sentiment resonated with millions of Indians and remains etched in the country’s collective memory.

After his return, Rakesh Sharma was celebrated as a national hero and was awarded the Ashoka Chakra, India’s highest peacetime military decoration. He continued to serve in the IAF and later retired as a Wing Commander. Post-retirement, Sharma worked with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on aerospace development projects.

Rakesh Sharma’s journey to space was a source of immense pride for India, inspiring generations to dream big and pursue careers in science and space exploration. His contributions to aviation and space research remain significant milestones in India’s history.

As India advances in its space ambitions, Rakesh Sharma’s legacy serves as a reminder of the nation’s potential and the spirit of exploration that transcends boundaries.

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