Vijayawada-born pilot set to become India's first space tourist
Gopichand Thotakura, a pilot and entrepreneur hailing from Vijayawada, is set to become the second Indian to journey into space. He follows in the path of Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who undertook the voyage in 1984. Thotakura's upcoming trip also distinguishes him as India's first space tourist, selected for Blue Origin's New Shephard-25 (NS-25) mission. This mission marks Blue Origin's return to manned space travel after an 18-month break.
Thotakura's journey: From childhood fascination to space travel
Thotakura's interest in the skies was sparked at the tender age of eight, during a memorable visit to a KLM plane cockpit. This early fascination steered his academic path, leading him to earn a Bachelor's degree in Aeronautical Science, from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida. Now, at 30 years old, Thotakura leads Preserve Life Corp, a wellness and applied health center situated close to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in the US.
Family reacts to upcoming space journey
Despite living abroad, Thotakura has maintained his Indian citizenship. His family, who also work in the wellness industry, were informed about his space travel plans after Blue Origin made the official announcement. Media reports indicate that Thotakura's family is experiencing a combination of apprehension and excitement, about his forthcoming journey into space.
Thotakura's pre-space career
Before embarking on his entrepreneurial journey, Thotakura served as a trained pilot who operated a medical air evacuation service in India about ten years ago. Interestingly, he obtained his pilot's license before even securing his driver's license.
Details of the upcoming NS-25 mission
The NS-25 mission is scheduled for launch in April from Blue Origin's launch site in West Texas. The crew accompanying Thotakura includes ex-US Air Force Captain Ed Dwight, Mason Angel (founder of Industrious Ventures), Sylvain Chiron (founder of Brasserie Mont Blanc), Kenneth L. Hess (software engineer and entrepreneur), and Carol Schaller (retired CPA). A successful mission could potentially boost Blue Origin's confidence to increase the frequency of its sub-orbital New Shepard tourist flights.