The recent announcement of the four Air Force pilots selected for India’s ambitious Gaganyaan mission has ignited discussions regarding the lack of female representation in the crew. The chosen astronauts are Group Captains Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair, Ajit Krishnan, Angad Pratap, and Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla. Given the iconic status of female astronauts like Kalpana Chawla and Sunita Williams, this absence raises important questions.
The primary reason for the all-male crew lies in the selection criteria. Historically, astronauts for maiden missions globally are chosen from a pool of test pilots. These individuals are selected for their exceptional flying skills and their ability to maintain composure in high-pressure situations, making them ideal candidates for space missions. At the time of selection for the Gaganyaan mission, India did not have any woman test pilots, which significantly influenced the selection process.
ISRO Chairman S. Somanath and Dr. Unnikrishnan Nair, Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, have both emphasized that women will have opportunities in future missions. Somanath highlighted the eventual need for mission specialists, where women could be included as astronauts. Nair reinforced this sentiment, stating ISRO’s gender-agnostic approach, which focuses solely on talent rather than gender.
Despite the current male-only crew, there is optimism regarding the participation of Indian women in future space missions. Opportunities may arise from collaborations such as the NASA-ISRO human space mission to the International Space Station or subsequent Gaganyaan missions. The selection process for these missions is expected to reflect a broader pool of candidates, potentially including skilled female fighter pilots, even if they are not officially classified as test pilots.
The Gaganyaan mission, with an estimated cost of around Rs 10,000 crore, stands as India’s most expensive scientific endeavor. It marks a significant milestone in the country’s space exploration journey. Success in this mission would position India as the fourth nation to send astronauts into space aboard an indigenously-made rocket, joining the ranks of the United States, China, and the former Soviet Union. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has highlighted this mission as a reflection of India’s growing stature in the global space community, emphasizing its broader implications for the nation’s technological and scientific advancements.
Q1. Why are there no women pilots in the Gaganyaan mission?
Answer: The absence of women pilots is due to the selection criteria focusing on test pilots, of whom India currently has no female representation. Future missions may include women as opportunities expand.
Q2. What is the Gaganyaan mission?
Answer: The Gaganyaan mission is India's ambitious project to send astronauts into space using an indigenously-developed rocket, marking a significant advance in the nation's space exploration efforts.
Q3. How much does the Gaganyaan mission cost?
Answer: The Gaganyaan mission is estimated to cost around Rs 10,000 crore, making it India's most expensive scientific mission to date.
Q4. Will women have future opportunities in ISRO missions?
Answer: Yes, ISRO officials have indicated that future missions will have opportunities for women, particularly as mission specialists, emphasizing a focus on talent over gender.
Q5. What are the criteria for selecting astronauts for space missions?
Answer: Astronauts are typically selected based on their expertise as test pilots, which includes exceptional flying skills and the ability to handle emergencies effectively.
Question 1: What is a primary reason for the selection of male pilots in the Gaganyaan mission?
A) Lack of funding
B) No female test pilots available
C) Gender bias in selection
D) Political influence
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which Indian female astronaut is known for her contributions to space exploration?
A) Kalpana Chawla
B) Sunita Williams
C) Both A and B
D) None of the above
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: How much is the estimated cost of the Gaganyaan mission?
A) Rs 5,000 crore
B) Rs 10,000 crore
C) Rs 15,000 crore
D) Rs 20,000 crore
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What is the goal of the Gaganyaan mission?
A) To send satellites into orbit
B) To send astronauts into space
C) To establish a space station
D) To explore Mars
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What is one potential future opportunity for women in the Gaganyaan project?
A) Becoming test pilots
B) Serving as mission specialists
C) Leading space agencies
D) None of the above
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: Who is the current ISRO Chairman?
A) K. Sivan
B) S. Somanath
C) A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
D) Vikram Sarabhai
Correct Answer: B
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