India will reach Moon by 2040: Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla in Bhubaneswar

India will have its own space station, and then eventually an Indian landing on the Moon by 2040, astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla revealed during an interaction with students at a science and technology event in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday. His remark offers a rare, forward-looking insight into the country’s long-term human spaceflight roadmap.

Shukla shared details about India’s expanding space ambitions, stating, ‘We have plans to reach the Moon by 2040.’ 
He also spoke about his personal journey, noting, ‘My mission began last August,’ and confirmed that he is part of the ongoing Gaganyaan programme, India’s first human spaceflight mission currently under advanced development.

Shukla’s address, delivered during the SciTech annual event hosted by Sai International School, added that work on Gaganyaan is progressing steadily and will lay the groundwork for India’s long-term lunar goal.

The astronaut also recounted the experience of being in space and the challenges and excitement that come with human space missions. His statements underscore India’s push to elevate its presence in global space exploration, moving from low-Earth orbit missions to long-duration and deep-space human expeditions.

‘Sare Jahan Se Acha—India Looks Stunning From Space’

Describing the breathtaking view of India from orbit, Shukla said, “India looks very beautiful from space, and it is truly said ‘Sare Jahan Se Acha’. India’s three sides are surrounded by sea, which looks dark and the land is illuminated, making it very beautiful.”

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He said many astronauts before him have shared the same sentiment.

“India looks confident, audacious and on the track of progress from space. This is the golden period of the country,” he concluded.