Gopichand Thotakura, an Indian businessman and pilot, is set to become the first Indian civilian to venture into space since Rakesh Sharma in 1984. He joins five others on a commercial flight by Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin. While debates arise over defining astronauts, Thotakura’s trip, reaching over 80 km above Earth’s surface, qualifies him as one. The FAA’s 2021 update broadens the term “space traveler,” impacting official recognitions. Thotakura’s journey symbolizes aspirations for space exploration, highlighting the evolving landscape of commercial spaceflight and India’s potential role in it.
Indian Businessman Set to Join Blue Origin’s Space Mission
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