Gopichand Thotakura set to be first Indian space tourist on Blue Origin space tourism mission to Kármán line. Gopichand Thotakura, a pilot and aviator, will fly on the Blue Origin NS-25 mission to the Kármán line and back as part of a space tourism mission. The Kármán line is an internationally recognised boundary of space located at an altitude of 100 kilometres above sea level. Where to watch Blue Origin NS-25 space mission launch live? The launch will occur at 7 pm IST, and can be watched on Blue Origin’s social media platforms. The event will be streamed 40 minutes before the launch from Launch Site One in West Texas, USA.
Who is Gopichand Thotakura?
1. Gopichand Thotakura is a pilot “who learned to fly before he could drive”.
2. He co-founded Preserve Life Corp, a global wellness centre near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
3. Gopi has served as an international medical jet pilot and has flown commercial jets, bush planes, aerobatic planes, seaplanes, gliders, and hot air balloons. He has performed over 2000 medical air ambulance missions.
4. He is an avid traveller and recently climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro’s summit.
5. Gopi graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. ‘I am honoured to represent India.’ “It is an incredible honour to become India’s first civilian astronaut as I cross the Kármán line with Blue Origin’s NS-25 mission. This journey is not just a personal milestone but a testament to India’s growing presence in space exploration,” Thotakura said in a statement. “I hope to inspire future generations to dream big, pursue STEAM education, and reach for the stars. Together, we can achieve the unimaginable. I am deeply grateful to Blue Origin and everyone who supported me in this incredible endeavour,” he added.
