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Mint
9 hours ago
- Science
- Mint
Let the countdown begin: NISAR is a splendid example of space collaboration
Earlier this month, Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla returned to earth after spending 18 days in space. He is only the second Indian to have been to space, and piloted the Space X Dragon with its Axiom-4 crew to the International Space Station (ISS) and back. While this mission was commercially arranged, the activities and experiments that Shukla conducted will aid India in its Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme in the coming years. Also Read: How ISRO's partnership with NASA will boost India's space industry Gaganyaan 1 and 2 are expected to place unmanned crafts in low-earth orbit that will be launched in late 2025 and 2026, respectively. Gaganyaan 3 is expected to launch a crewed craft later in 2026 or early 2027. Shukla himself was trained both at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Centre in Moscow and subsequently at the Johnson Space Center in Houston. Another remarkable area of collaboration between the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Nasa) will come to fruition with the launch at the end of July of a jointly-developed satellite called NISAR. The acronym stands for Nasa-Isro Satellite Aperture Radar. The mission is organized to collect an unprecedented amount of information about our planet's environment. It will scan nearly all of Earth's land and ice surfaces twice every 12 days. This will let us track the expansion and contraction of ice sheets, sea ice and glaciers, plus the deformation of its crust due to natural hazards as well as natural and man-made changes to terrestrial ecosystems. These measurements will be carried out by two radar systems—an L-band system and an S-band system. This dual-band system is the first of its kind in the world. The L-band system was built in the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) at Nasa and the S-band system at the Space Applications Centre (SAC), Ahmedabad. JPL will additionally provide a high-rate telecom subsystem for scientific data, a solid-state recorder and a payload data subsystem. Isro will provide the satellite bus, a solid-state recorder and a payload data system, in addition to launch services and a launch vehicle. Also Read: Mint Quick Edit | Space tourism: Can Isro beat Blue Origin? The NISAR satellite, which weighs nearly 2400kg, has been moved to Sriharikota in preparation for its launch at the end of this month. It will lift off on Isro's GSLV-F16 rocket and then be placed in a 743km sun-synchronous orbit. There are many exciting space missions around the world this year and the next. These span lunar spaceflight, asteroid and planetary missions, climate and earth science missions and orbital innovation (of which NISAR is an example). Nasa, JAXA, ESA, Isro and CNSA lead almost all these programmes. Today, 55 countries have signed the Artemis Accords—a set of principles guiding peaceful and transparent space exploration, especially of the Moon and Mars. At a time when countries are at loggerheads on earth, civilian space collaboration continues apace. If you look deeper, you will find threads of countries going it alone. The most obvious example is the CNSA, particularly Tiangong, China's space station launched in 2021. While China's stated goal is to make it a collaborative international project, it is currently operated by China alone. Tiangong is technically the third space station, since it follows the Mir Space Station that the Soviet Union (and later Russia) had stationed in low-earth orbit from 1986 to 2001, and the ISS, which was launched nearly 25 years ago and is still operational. Surprisingly, Russia is part of the ISS and has committed to remaining so at least until 2028. China, though, has never been part of the ISS. Also Read: Space race: Is competition among Indian startups ready for lift-off? Geopolitics on Earth is beginning to shape some country collaborations in space. The International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) announced by Roscosmos and CNSA in 2021 is led by Russia and China but includes several other countries like Azerbaijan, Belarus, Pakistan and South Africa. The ILRS has announced plans to power a permanent station on the Moon with a nuclear plant to be operational beginning in 2031. After the Soviet Union's space programme, this is the first space mission that seems like an alternative to Western efforts. Brazil, South Korea and India operate space programmes that are not just independent, but also open to wide global collaboration. India's civilian space effort has distinguished itself with its frugal missions, ability to master complex engineering feats like landing near the Moon's south pole, and its overall success in terms of speed and design effectiveness. Missions that explore the far reaches of our solar system and beyond are better left to countries that have very large space budgets. Also Read: Space mission Axiom 4: The universe can be a family one day Nasa has several telescope-based missions for interstellar space and craft-based missions for Jupiter, Saturn and beyond. India has a fast-growing private space sector, but its best returns on space investment are likely to come from parts of space that are close to earth, like near-earth orbits and the Moon. This priority is reflected in Isro's next few missions, be it the planned launch of large and small payloads, uncrewed and crewed missions to low-earth orbit, or its directional tilt towards an Indian Space Station by 2035. Renewed interest in this sector has brought about a new momentum and opened up exciting possibilities for Indian discoveries in space. P.S: 'We are just an advanced breed of monkeys on a minor planet of a very average star. But we can understand the Universe. That makes us something very special," said cosmologist Stephen Hawking. The author is chairman, InKlude Labs. Read Narayan's Mint columns at
India Today
4 days ago
- Science
- India Today
Nasa to launch four astronauts just 16 days after returning India's Shubhanshu Shukla
Just sixteen days after the safe return of astronauts from the Axiom-4 mission, which included Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla , NASA is preparing for yet another journey to the International Space Station (ISS).On July 31, the space agency will launch the SpaceX Crew-11 mission, continuing its rapid pace of human spaceflight under the Commercial Crew launch is scheduled for 9:39pm IST from Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center in The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft will carry a four-member international crew: NASA astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, JAXA astronaut Kimiya Yui from Japan, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Platonov from spacecraft is expected to dock with the ISS around on August mission is the 11th crew rotation flight to the ISS and the 12th human spaceflight using SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft since 2020. It underscores not only NASA's commitment to continuous human presence in space but also the strength of international aboard the ISS, the crew will participate in a series of cutting-edge scientific experiments, including studies on the effects of microgravity on the human body, biological systems, and advanced experiments contribute to both space exploration goals and practical technologies back on launch follows the successful return of the Axiom-4 mission on July 15, which was historic for India due to ISRO's involvement and astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's participation. That mission marked a major milestone in India's expanding role in space Crew-11 prepares for launch, the world is once again reminded that the future of space isn't about one nation, it's about shared missions, global teamwork, and the united pursuit of knowledge beyond Earth.- EndsMust Watch
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First Post
6 days ago
- Science
- First Post
Shubhanshu Shukla is learning to walk again after space travel. Here's why
After spending nearly 20 days in microgravity aboard the International Space Station (ISS), Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is now going through recovery and adjusting to life on Earth again. A video shared by Shukla on Instagram shows him relearning how to walk, with two people supporting him as he takes slow, steady steps. Notably, astronauts are unable to walk immediately after returning from space read more In a video posted by Shukla, he could be seen learning to walk again. Image: Instagram/ Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who came back from space on July 15 after spending almost three weeks aboard the International Space Station (ISS), is now going through recovery and getting used to life on Earth again. Notably, he was one of four astronauts who flew to the ISS on June 25 aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft as part of the Axiom-4 mission. ALSO READ | Who is astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's wife, Kamna Shukla? STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In a video posted by Shukla on Instagram, he could be seen learning to walk again, with two people helping him take slow and steady steps. Earlier this year, Nasa astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore were taken out of their SpaceX crew capsule on stretchers after returning from over nine months in space. When astronauts return to Earth from space, they are unable to walk immediately after landing. So, why does this happen? Let's find out: Why Shubhanshu Shukla is learning to walk again After spending close to 20 days in microgravity, Shubhanshu Shukla and his team landed safely on July 15. On Tuesday, he posted a video on Instagram showing himself trying to walk again and readjust to gravity. In the clip, he is seen placing one foot in front of the other, with two people supporting him. 'I have received many messages wishing me a speedy recovery. I want to thank everyone and give a quick update,' he wrote. Shukla explained that space travel affects the body in several ways, such as fluid movement, changes in heart rate, and reduced balance and muscle strength. 'These are adaptations to the new environment,' he said, adding, 'Once the body gets used to this and we return to gravity, these adjustments happen once again.' STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD He mentioned that while the recovery period varies for each astronaut, the body starts adapting soon after landing. 'I was surprised to observe the pace with which our body can adjust to new settings,' he said. During their time on the International Space Station, Shukla and his crewmates carried out more than 60 scientific experiments and outreach activities. Shukla is the second Indian to travel to space, after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who made the journey in 1984. Why astronauts have to learn to walk again after space travel When astronauts return from space, they are often unable to walk on their own right away. Many need support to stand or move properly. This happens because of temporary changes that take place in the body during space travel. John DeWitt, director of applied sports science at Rice University in Texas and a former senior scientist at Nasa's Johnson Space Center, told Live Science that just like someone might feel sick on a roller coaster or a rough boat ride, astronauts can feel dizzy and nauseous when they come back to Earth. This is one reason why astronauts are usually moved out of the spacecraft on stretchers after landing, as a safety step. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The sensation occurs because our bodies rely on gravity to function normally. But on the International Space Station, astronauts experience weightlessness as the station constantly falls towards Earth. Their bodies slowly adjust to this changed setting. Recently, Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore were carried out on stretchers after their return from space. Sunita Williams was taken out of the SpaceX crew capsule on stretchers after returning from space. AP Another reason astronauts find walking hard is due to fluid shifts. In space, fluids move towards the upper body. When astronauts return, they may feel faint or dizzy from a sudden drop in blood pressure while standing, as their body needs time to relearn how to manage blood flow under gravity. Balance is also affected. The part of the inner ear that helps with movement and balance adapts to zero gravity. Once back on Earth, the brain takes time to adjust and process signals correctly. Movements that were easy in space now feel clumsy, as the brain relearns how to move with gravity, The Times of India reported. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD How do the astronauts recover? To recover from the effects of microgravity and adjust to Earth's gravity, astronauts go through careful rehabilitation. They take part in physical therapy sessions designed to rebuild muscle strength and bone density lost during their time in space. Balance training is also provided to help the vestibular system readjust to Earth's environment. As space travel has a major impact on cardiovascular health, astronauts slowly resume physical activity. This helps their heart and circulation return to normal levels.
News18
6 days ago
- Science
- News18
Shubhanshu Shukla Learns To Walk Again After Spending 18 Days In Space
Last Updated: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, one of four astronauts on the Axiom-4 mission, launched aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft on June 25. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who returned from space on July 15 after nearly three weeks aboard the International Space Station (ISS), is now undergoing recovery and physical readjustment on Earth. Shukla, one of four astronauts on the Axiom-4 mission, launched aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft on June 25. After spending nearly 20 days in microgravity, he and the team splashed down safely off the coast of California. In a video shared on Instagram, Shukla is seen relearning how to walk, supported by two individuals as he takes slow, deliberate steps. 'I have received many messages wishing me a speedy recovery. I want to thank everyone and give a quick update," he wrote in the post. He explained that during space travel, the body undergoes several physiological changes due to the absence of gravity, such as fluid shifts, changes in heart rate and balance, and muscle loss. Now, back on Earth, he said, the body has to adapt again. 'Though the rate of recovery varies for each astronaut, I was amazed at how quickly the human body begins to readjust," he noted. 'In the pursuit of the unknown (space), you get to know more about yourself." According to Union Minister Jitendra Singh, Shukla and the other three astronauts will remain in quarantine until July 23. The period will include medical monitoring and support to aid their re-adaptation. Minister Singh, in an interview with PTI, said Shukla's mission has provided India with valuable practical insights as it prepares for its human spaceflight programme, Gaganyaan. 'It has added to India's capabilities and positioned us more strongly for future international space collaborations," he said. During their stay aboard the ISS, Shukla and his crewmates conducted over 60 scientific experiments and outreach activities. Shukla is only the second Indian to travel to space, after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who flew in 1984. view comments First Published: July 23, 2025, 08:46 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
NDTV
6 days ago
- Science
- NDTV
Watch: Shubhanshu Shukla Learns To Walk Again After Spending 18 Days In Space
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who returned from a successful space mission last week, is relearning to walk on Earth again. Mr Shukla was among the four crew members who flew aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft on June 25 as part of the Axiom-4 mission. He returned safely to Earth on July 15 after spending approximately 18 days aboard the ISS. On Tuesday, Mr Shukla shared a video on Instagram of himself trying to walk again and getting used to gravity. In the clip, he is seen being helped by two other people as he puts each step in front of the last one. "I have received a lot of messages regarding my health and wishing me speedy recovery. I want to thank you all and also give an update. Experiencing microgravity, our body goes through several changes like fluid shift, heart rate, balance readjustment, muscle loss. These are adaptations to the new environment. Once the body gets used to this and we return to gravity, these adjustments happen once again. Though it varies for all astronauts, the body soon starts adapting to its new environment. I was surprised to observe the pace with which our body can adjust to new settings," Mr Shukla wrote in the caption of the post. "In the pursuit of the unknown(space), you get to know more about yourself," he added. Take a look at the video below: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shubhanshu Shukla (@ Mr Shukla and the three other mission astronauts will remain in quarantine until July 23 to complete medical and re-adaptation procedures, according to an official statement quoting Union Minister Jitendra Singh. In an interview with PTI, Mr Singh said Mr Shukla's three-week stay at the International Space Station as part of the Axiom-4 mission has given India valuable insights and experience in handling space missions as it prepares for its own Gaganyaan project. It gave a tremendous amount of experience, expertise for India's future voyages and also put the country in a better position for large international collaborations, the Union Minister continued. "But most of all, it also sends out a huge, huge message across the globe. Now, India has come of age as far as the space sector is concerned," he said. Shubhanshu Shukla and three other crewmates splashed down off the coast of California on July 15. During their time aboard the ISS, Mr Shukla and the Ax-4 crew were involved in over 60 scientific experiments and outreach initiatives. Mr Shukla is only the second Indian to visit space. Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma was the first to do so in 1984.
