Gopichand Thotakura made history as the first Indian space tourist, flying on Blue Origin’s NS-25 mission to the Kármán line and back. The mission, which marks Blue Origin’s seventh human flight and 25th mission overall, launched at 7 PM IST on Sunday from Launch Site One in West Texas, USA. The event streamed live on Blue Origin’s social media platforms, starting 40 minutes before the launch.
Thotakura, an accomplished pilot and aviator, learned to fly before he could drive. He co-founded Preserve Life Corp, a global wellness center near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. With extensive experience as an international medical jet pilot, Thotakura has flown a diverse array of aircraft, including commercial jets, bush planes, aerobatic planes, seaplanes, gliders, and hot air balloons. He has also performed over 2,000 medical air ambulance missions and is an avid traveler, recently summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro. Thotakura graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
Reflecting on his journey, Thotakura had said, “It is an incredible honor 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. 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 endeavor.”
The Kármán line, located 100 kilometers above sea level, is internationally recognized as the boundary of space. Thotakura joined on this mission by Mason Angel, founder of Industrious Ventures; Sylvain Chiron, founder of Brasserie Mont Blanc; Kenneth L. Hess, software engineer and entrepreneur; Carol Schaller, a retired CPA; and Ed Dwight, a former US Air Force captain who was selected by President John F. Kennedy in 1961 as the nation’s first Black astronaut candidate but never had the opportunity to fly to space.
Blue Origin, founded by Jeff Bezos, continues to push the boundaries of space tourism, having already launched 31 people to the Kármán line. The NS-25 mission signifies a step forward in making space travel accessible and inspiring the next generation of explorers.
