Indian entrepreneur and pilot Gopichand Thotakura created history as the first Indian tourist in space, joining Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin’s NS-25 mission. A video posted on Blue Origin’s Instagram showcased Thotakura displaying the Indian flag in space. The Blue Origin completed its 7th human spaceflight and the 25th flight for the New Shepard program on May 19th.
Gopichand Thotakura expressed his awe at the experience, stating, “It was amazing… you have to see it with your eyes.” He emphasized the profound impact of witnessing Earth from space, advocating for more people to experience it.
Social media flooded with messages of support and excitement. Users from India and beyond expressed love and wished the crew luck. The astronaut team included individuals like Mason Angel, Sylvain Chiron, Kenneth L. Hess, Carol Schaller, and former Air Force Captain Ed Dwight.
