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Hindustan Times
13 hours ago
- Science
- Hindustan Times
From eating to sleeping in space: Shubhanshu Shukla answers students from ISS
Space intrigues all, especially children. So when the students of different schools here got the opportunity to talk to astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, who is onboard the International Space Station (ISS), they relished it. Shubhanshu Shukla also described the launch experience of the Axiom Mission 4 from the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida on June 25. (ANI) What do astronauts eat? How does one sleep in space? What happens if someone falls sick there? How does the body adjust to space, and how much would it take to readjust on Earth? From his orbital post on the ISS, Shukla enthusiastically gave detailed answers to these questions posed by the students who had assembled at the City Montessori School here. The students also sought to know about the benefits of the space programme and what part of the space visit is most enjoyable. During the interaction, Shukla, the first Indian to reach the ISS, described the launch experience of the Axiom Mission 4 from the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida on June 25 as "amazing" and "dynamic". About the question on sleeping arrangements while in space, he said, "It is fun actually because in space there is no floor and no ceiling. So if you were to come and visit the station (ISS), you would find someone sleeping on the walls, someone on the ceiling." "It is so easy to float up and tie yourself to the ceiling. The challenge is to be found at the same place where you slept at night and to ensure that we tie our sleeping bags to ensure we don't float away to some other place," Shukla said. A student said that when asked what happens if someone falls ill in space, the astronaut replied that they carry they carry adequate medicines in case things go wrong. During the interaction, Group Captain Angad Pratap, who is part of India's maiden manned space mission Gaganyaan, was in Lucknow to create awareness among the youth about space programmes. The student interaction was part of ISRO's Vidyarthi Samvad Programme. Shukla, who is the first Indian to reach the ISS, is also one of the four astronaut-designates for Gaganyaan. A student said that Shukla told them that astronauts hardly get any free time. "But they do watch things or play some sports," he said. "However, one thing that astronauts look forward to is to go out and gaze into space and take a good view of the Earth -- it is very beautiful," a student, who was part of the interaction, told PTI. Talking about the challenges of getting the body readjusted back on Earth, Shukla told his audience that the biggest challenge is the absence of gravity. "Space is a new situation for the body. So like today, I am feeling much better from what I was feeling on day one here," the astronaut said. "My body has now kind of adapted to microgravity, but when I return to Earth, my body would have to readapt to gravity. This is a challenge again, and this adaptation will be required on re-entering Earth. A lot of preparations and procedures are required because space is a very dynamic place," he added. Asked what astronauts eat, Shukla said that most of the food is pre-packaged, and adequate care is taken to ensure that they have enough nutrition. Food becomes one of the main sources of motivation or pleasure in space, he said. "Different food items are laid down and astronauts get to taste all of those and whatever they prefer is packed," said Shukla, who during his interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi had told him that he had carried desserts like Gazar Ka Halwa, Moong Dal Ka Halwa and Aam Ras with him to space. A student wanted to know his take on the effect that space has on mental health. At this, Shukla, while admitting challenges, added that modern technology has ensured that astronauts get to connect with family and friends. "It helps a lot," he said. Another student said, "He told us that he finds such interactions immensely rewarding because this shows us the future we have and the possibilities that exist, so that we can see what lies ahead of us, and this is what we have to aim at." Wing Commander Pratap told the students in Lucknow to stay motivated for the next couple of decades, which will witness immense possibilities unfolding for human spaceflight in India. He spoke of the exciting and challenging career in aerospace sciences. "It was all so exciting. Group Captain Shubhanshu explained the varied nuances, challenges, and excitement of space travel, while Wing Commander Pratap motivated us to devote ourselves to science," a student said. "Among other things, we could either become researchers or join the armed forces as an experimental test pilot for an exciting and challenging career." Among other things, Wing Commander Pratap highlighted the traits of Shukla, with positivity being the key one. Another student said that when asked about how one stays fit in space where microgravity comes in play, Shukla said, "On Earth, we always have loading on our body due to gravity and the muscles are always utilised while walking, sitting, or even standing." "But that is not the case in microgravity, as one suffers muscle loss. It is very important for astronauts to keep exercising," Shukla told the students and spoke of his exercise routine. "There is a bicycle that we exercise on. Interestingly, there is no seat on the cycle because in microgravity, you are floating. So you just lock on to the pedals, tie yourself to the belt and then you start exercising. "There is also an exercise machine in which you can do all forms of exercises," he told the students while also demonstrating how one moves in space.
India Today
15 hours ago
- Science
- India Today
A classroom in space: Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla speaks to students from ISS
Students from Lucknow's City Montessori School in Lucknow and other institutions participated in a live video interaction with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut to reach the International Space Station (ISS).The session, part of Isro's Vidyarthi Samvad Programme, brought space science directly into classrooms, sparking awe, curiosity, and a renewed sense of national pride among many young attendees, the session was more than an interaction—it was a transformational experience. Hearing from an Indian astronaut orbiting hundreds of kilometers above Earth made space exploration feel immediate and real. Shukla's stories about life in space inspired students to think beyond limits and imagine their place in the future of science and discovery. advertisement Students posed a range of questions, eager to know how astronauts live aboard the ISS. Shukla described sleeping in microgravity using anchored sleeping bags, adding humorously that if not strapped down, 'you might drift away and wake up in a different spot.'He also shared how astronauts eat pre-packaged meals in space, but made a special mention of carrying Indian sweets like Gajar ka Halwa and Aam Ras to add a touch of home comfort to his meals aboard the asked about medical emergencies in space, Shukla assured the students that the crew is well-trained and the ISS is equipped with necessary medicines and emphasised that astronauts prepare for a range of scenarios and safety is taken very seriously. On a more emotional note, he spoke about the experience of viewing Earth from space. 'It's peaceful and beautiful. A moment of quiet reflection we all cherish,' he said. Shukla also explained how the human body reacts to microgravity. (Photo: Axiom) Shukla also explained how the human body reacts to microgravity, noting that while the body adapts over time in space, returning to Earth brings its own challenges. 'Our muscles and balance systems need to be retrained. It's a slow and careful process,' he made history on June 26, 2025, during the Axiom Mission 4, Shukla's presence on the ISS marks a significant milestone in India's space journey. His words, 'Jai Hind, Jai Bharat,' during the mission symbolised not only personal triumph but also a leap forward for the session, attended in Lucknow by Group Captain Angad Pratap, reinforced India's mission to inspire its youth and stake its claim among the stars as it gets ready for the Gaganyaan Mission.- EndsTune InMust Watch
India Today
15 hours ago
- Science
- India Today
Shubhanshu Shukla answers 5 questions by students about space
Children often dream of flying to space, and recently, some students from City Montessori School in Lucknow got to live a part of that dream -- by directly speaking with astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, currently stationed on the International Space Station (ISS).The interaction was part of ISRO's Vidyarthi Samvad Programme, aimed at nurturing young minds towards science and space exploration. Group Captain Shukla, India's first astronaut aboard the ISS and a designated crew member for India's upcoming Gaganyaan mission, enthusiastically answered a range of student queries -- from food habits to fitness challenges in the event in Lucknow was also Group Captain Angad Pratap, part of the Gaganyaan programme, who inspired students to explore careers in aerospace science and experimental test piloting.1. HOW DO ASTRONAUTS SLEEP IN SPACE? Asked about how one sleeps in space, Shukla replied, "It is fun actually because in space there is no floor and no ceiling. So if you were to come and visit the station (ISS), you would find someone sleeping on the walls, someone on the ceiling."He added, "It is so easy to float up and tie yourself to the ceiling. The challenge is to be found at the same place where you slept at night and to ensure that we tie our sleeping bags to ensure we don't float away to some other place."2. WHAT DO THEY EAT IN SPACE?Food in space is pre-packed, but it is also a source of joy. "Different food items are laid down and astronauts get to taste all of those and whatever they prefer is packed," Shukla even shared that he had carried Indian sweets with him. "I had carried desserts like Gazar Ka Halwa, Moong Dal Ka Halwa and Aam Ras with me to space."3. HOW DOES SPACE AFFECT THE BODY?On the effects of microgravity, Shukla said, "On Earth, we always have loading on our body due to gravity and the muscles are always utilised while walking, sitting, or even standing. But that is not the case in microgravity, as one suffers muscle loss. It is very important for astronauts to keep exercising."He described how astronauts exercise: "There is a bicycle that we exercise on. Interestingly, there is no seat on the cycle because in microgravity, you are floating. So you just lock on to the pedals, tie yourself to the belt and then you start exercising."He also added, "There is also an exercise machine in which you can do all forms of exercises."4. HOW DO ASTRONAUTS MANAGE THEIR MENTAL HEALTH?Asked about mental well-being in space, Shukla said modern technology helps them stay connected. "It helps a lot," he said, referring to the ability to speak with family and friends.5. WHAT IS THE MOST ENJOYABLE PART OF BEING IN SPACE?advertisementWhen asked what astronauts enjoy most, Shukla said, "One thing that astronauts look forward to is to go out and gaze into space and take a good view of the Earth -- it is very beautiful."He also described his journey on Axiom Mission 4, which launched from the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida on June 25, as 'amazing' and 'dynamic.'Shukla acknowledged that space adaptation takes time. "My body has now kind of adapted to microgravity, but when I return to Earth, my body would have to readapt to gravity. This is a challenge again, and this adaptation will be required on re-entering Earth."Students walked away inspired by both Shukla and Pratap. One student summed it up: "It was all so exciting. Group Captain Shubhanshu explained the varied nuances, challenges, and excitement of space travel, while Wing Commander Pratap motivated us to devote ourselves to science."- EndsTune InMust Watch
Time of India
17 hours ago
- Science
- Time of India
Shubhanshu Shukla answers students' questions about life on the ISS: From eating to floating in space
Shubhanshu Shukla 's interaction with students: In a landmark moment for Indian space education, students from City Montessori School and other institutions participated in a live interaction with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut to reach the International Space Station (ISS). Organised under ISRO's Vidyarthi Samvad Programme, the session offered a rare opportunity for young minds to engage directly with a spacefarer orbiting hundreds of kilometres above Earth. This initiative not only allowed students to gain a deeper understanding of life in space but also aimed to ignite their curiosity about science, technology, and India's growing role in space exploration. For the students who participated, the interaction was nothing short of transformational. Hearing directly from an Indian astronaut in space made science tangible, real, and deeply exciting. It was more than a Q&A—it was a moment that connected generations through culture, science, and national pride. Through his stories and insights, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla brought the mysteries of space closer to Earth and reminded young Indians that even the stars are within reach. Shubhanshu Shukla interacts from ISS: Students ask about daily life in space From the very beginning of the interaction, students were eager to understand what life is like beyond Earth. Their questions were diverse, ranging from everyday routines to more complex biological and scientific phenomena. They wanted to know how astronauts adapt to zero gravity, how daily hygiene works in space, and what happens during emergencies. The curiosity extended to space food, physical training before launch, and even mental health support while in orbit. This genuine inquisitiveness reflected the excitement of young minds witnessing history, speaking directly to an astronaut who had experienced the marvels and challenges of life in space firsthand. A. How do astronauts sleep in space Shukla responded with enthusiasm, explaining that without gravity, there's no concept of "up" or "down." Astronauts don't sleep on beds like on Earth—instead, they use sleeping bags secured to the walls or ceiling inside the ISS. 'It's fun, actually. You can float and tie yourself anywhere—on the walls, even the ceiling. But to avoid drifting away, we anchor our sleeping bags in place. Otherwise, we might not be in the same spot in the morning,' Shukla said with a smile. B. Eating in space: Food, nutrition, and a taste of home Food was another hot topic among students. Shukla explained that astronauts rely on pre-packaged meals specially designed to meet nutritional needs in microgravity. However, food also plays an important psychological role in space. 'Food is one of the few pleasures in space. So we get to choose from a variety of options,' he said. Adding a personal touch, Shukla shared that he carried a few favorite Indian sweets like Gajar ka Halwa, Moong Dal Halwa, and Aam Ras to space. This not only offered comfort but also connected him to his cultural roots while far from home. C. Health and emergencies in orbit One of the more serious student questions was about medical emergencies. What happens if someone falls ill on the ISS? Shukla explained that astronauts undergo rigorous health training before their mission and the station is stocked with adequate medical supplies. Although there is no doctor on board, astronauts are trained to handle most common issues. 'We carry sufficient medicines and are prepared for various scenarios. Safety and health protocols are strictly followed,' he reassured. D. Emotional joy of gazing at Earth Beyond the technical and physical challenges, students were also curious about the emotional side of space travel. One asked what astronauts do during their free time. Shukla admitted that astronauts have very limited leisure time, but when they do, they enjoy watching Earth from space—something he described as profoundly moving. 'The view of Earth from the ISS is incredible. It's so peaceful and beautiful. We all look forward to that quiet time of reflection,' he said. Astronauts also engage in light recreational activities like watching shows or playing simple games when time permits. E. Adapting the human body to microgravity and back again Another fascinating aspect covered during the interaction was how the human body copes with microgravity. Shukla explained that initially, the body feels disoriented in the absence of gravity, but over time, it adjusts. 'Right now, I feel much better than I did on my first day here. The body learns to adapt,' he said. However, he added that returning to Earth brings its own challenges, as the body has to re-learn how to function under gravity. 'Readjusting after returning to Earth is a process. We need specific training and support because re-entry impacts muscles, balance, and overall functioning,' he explained. Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla becomes first to enter ISS during Axiom Mission 4 Shukla also shared his experience of the launch during the interaction. As part of Axiom Mission 4, he lifted off from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida on June 25, 2025, along with three other astronauts. After orbiting the Earth for 28 hours, their spacecraft docked with the ISS. On June 26, Shukla made history as the first Indian to step into the ISS, receiving warm welcomes and handshakes from fellow astronauts. He marked the occasion by declaring: 'Jai Hind, Jai Bharat.' With this, Shukla became the 634th astronaut in the world and the second Indian to travel to space, following Rakesh Sharma, who ventured into orbit in 1984. Shukla is not only the first Indian to reach the ISS but also one of the four astronaut-designates for India's upcoming Gaganyaan mission, the country's maiden manned spaceflight programme. During the interaction, Group Captain Angad Pratap, another key figure in Gaganyaan, was present in Lucknow to promote awareness about India's space initiatives. His presence added weight to the educational event and further inspired students to dream big. Also Read | Earth's faster spin may cause shorter days, scientists warn — should you be concerned
Deccan Herald
a day ago
- Science
- Deccan Herald
UP, Kerala students get rare peek into life on ISS during interaction with Shubhanshu Shukla
During the interaction, Group Captain Angad Pratap, who is part of India's maiden manned space mission Gaganyaan, was in Lucknow to create awareness among the youth about space programmes. The student interaction was part of ISRO's Vidyarthi Samvad Programme.
