Space Meets Classroom: Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla Inspires Indian Students from ISS
In a first-of-its-kind experience, students across India were transported—virtually—to outer space as they interacted live with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The historic session, part of ISRO’s Vidyarthi Samvad Programme, connected young minds directly with India’s proud face in space, blending science, patriotism, and imagination in an unforgettable moment.
The highlight of the event was a special interaction with students from City Montessori School in Lucknow, joined by peers from other institutions nationwide. Speaking from hundreds of kilometers above Earth, Shukla transformed the concept of a classroom into something truly cosmic, sparking awe and curiosity among the students.
“This wasn’t just a session; it was a window to the future,” said one student, visibly inspired after the interaction.
Life in Orbit, Explained
The conversation ranged from the technical to the deeply human. Students, visibly thrilled, asked questions about everything from daily routines aboard the ISS to handling medical emergencies in space.
Shukla described how astronauts sleep in microgravity using anchored sleeping bags and added humorously, “If you’re not strapped down, you might drift away and wake up in a different spot.”
When asked about meals in orbit, he shared that astronauts mostly eat pre-packaged foods. However, to bring a slice of India to space, he carried Indian dishes like Aam Ras, Gajar ka Halwa, and Moong Dal Halwa—a special collaboration between ISRO and DRDO.
“Everyone loved it, and we shared it with the international crew. In fact, we exchanged food with astronauts from different countries,” he said, highlighting the warmth of inter-nation camaraderie even in space.
Challenges of Spaceflight
One question touched on emergencies: What happens if someone falls ill in space? Shukla assured students that ISS crews are trained extensively and the station is equipped with the necessary medical kits and protocols to handle a wide range of situations.
He also explained the physical challenges of living in microgravity, noting that while the body adapts over time, returning to Earth requires reconditioning.
“Our muscles and balance systems need to be retrained. It’s a slow, careful process,” he added.
On a more reflective note, he described the emotional impact of looking at Earth from orbit:
“It’s peaceful and beautiful — a moment of quiet reflection we all cherish.”
Shukla’s Journey and National Pride
Shubhanshu Shukla made history on June 26, 2025, during the Axiom Mission 4, becoming India’s first astronaut aboard the ISS. His declaration—“Jai Hind, Jai Bharat”—resonated across the country and became a symbol of national pride.
Speaking from space during this session, Shukla once again captured hearts with his humility and vision.
When a student asked about his launch experience, Shukla recounted the thrilling moment:
“The rocket launch was dynamic and fast. The acceleration was intense. Our capsule had very little space to move, but the excitement of being in space made up for it. Once we docked, the international crew was waiting with smiles.”
He also dialed in separately to Indian students via HAM radio, expanding the reach of his message and inspiring more future scientists and space enthusiasts.
Mission Beyond Science
The session was also attended by Group Captain Angad Pratap in Lucknow, who reiterated the importance of outreach and education in India’s space journey. With the Gaganyaan Mission on the horizon, India is gearing up for bigger strides in human spaceflight.
The Vidyarthi Samvad Programme, through sessions like this, aims to build a scientific temper in the youth while reinforcing India’s capabilities and dreams in space exploration.
“This interaction shows us what’s possible when science meets aspiration,” said a teacher from CMS Lucknow. “Our students are dreaming bigger today.”
As India looks to its future among the stars, voices like Shukla’s—grounded in experience and lifted by purpose—will continue to guide the next generation.
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