“I was born in Hyderabad but spent my childhood in small railway towns across Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, where my father worked for Indian Railways. Returning to Hyderabad for my intermediate education (MPC) at Sri Chaitanya Junior College, I discovered my fascination for space after seeing an ISRO satellite cartoon on a physics textbook. That single image sparked endless curiosity and led me to explore ISRO and NASA websites and discuss space science with classmates.
Though I aspired to study aerospace engineering, I pursued a B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering at J.B. Institute of Engineering and Technology, Hyderabad (2011–2015), understanding its close link to astronautics. In 2012, I wrote to NASA about becoming an astronaut. Richard Spencer, a NASA librarian, replied, advising me to stay persistent, gain practical experience, and learn across disciplines—guidance that profoundly shaped my approach.
During college, I worked on hands-on projects, visited DRDO facilities, and toured ISRO centers in Kerala during vacations.
My uncles, accomplished scientists at the DLRL and CPRI, deeply influenced me. Their mentorship taught me that science demands resilience, humility, and integrity as much as technical excellence, forming the moral and intellectual foundation of my journey. After graduating, I earned a postgraduate degree in Thermal Power from the School of Aerospace Engineering at Cranfield University, UK, focusing on gas turbines, turbomachinery, and propulsion. I have drawn inspiration from India’s space visionaries—Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, Prof. Satish Dhawan, Prof. Brahm Prakash, and Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and have been moved by Dr. Nambi Narayanan’s courage. Insights from Dr. K. Radhakrishnan further affirmed the need to create one’s own path.
In 2023, I participated in the TITANIA-72 analog lunar mission in Poland, undergoing simulated lunar isolation, EVA drills, and confined research. I have since been selected for Titan Space’s cis-lunar mission (tentatively scheduled for 2029), commanded by NASA veteran William McArthur, to advance human operations near the Moon and test next-generation propulsion systems.
Parallel to my astronaut career, I founded Stellar Lift Systems, an Indian aerospace venture focused on advanced propulsion and space infrastructure. By 2026, we aim to establish an astronaut training and research facility in Ladakh, training India’s next-generation astronauts while also accommodating international trainees at high altitude. Through my science podcast, The Aero Cosmonaut, and other educational content, I strive to make space science relatable and inspire young Indians to dream beyond Earth.
During my journey, there were moments of doubt. Surrounded by highly specialized professionals, I sometimes questioned whether I belonged. Over time, I learned to focus on personal growth and contribution rather than competition. Every night, when I look at the sky, I remember the teachers, mentors, family, and pioneers of Indian space research who shaped me. Their guidance has shown me that resilience, curiosity, and dedication are just as important as technical knowledge. My mission is to carry India’s spirit of innovation beyond Earth, one step, one orbit, and one mission at a time.”