Rakesh Sharma, born on 13th January 1949, is a former Indian Air Force Pilot who flew aboard on Soyuz T-11 into space, launched on 2nd April 1984 as a part of Inter-cosmos program. Rakesh Sharma is the only Indian Citizen to travel in space.
- He was elected as a cosmonaut to travel into space as part of a combined programme by Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Intercosmos ( a Soviet space programme) on September 20, 1982.
- Rakesh Sharma is the first and the only Indian to travel in space.
- He spent eight days in space along with two other Soviet cosmonauts.
- Upon his return, he was awarded the honor of Hero of Soviet Union.
- The Government of India honored its highest gallantry award, the Ashoka Chakra to Mr. Rakesh Sharma and the other two members of his mission.
- Rakesh Sharma retired with the rank of the Wing Commander and joined Hindustan Aeronautics in 1987.
- He also served as the Chief Test Pilot in HAL Nashik Division and retired from there in 2001.
Conclusion: Rakesh Sharma, being first and the only Indian to travel in space is considered valuable to the history of India and is an inspiration to the youth of the country.
By Rohan
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