Swedish Astronaut Praises Chandrayaan-3 Success and Expresses Excitement for Gaganyaan Mission
In a recent interview, Swedish astronaut Christer Fuglesang lauded India’s Chandrayaan-3 mission as “amazing and outstanding.” He expressed his anticipation for India’s future space endeavors, particularly looking forward to the Gaganyaan mission with Indian astronauts on board. Fuglesang emphasized the global applause for the successful landing of the Vikram lander and Pragyan rover on the moon’s South Pole in August, marking a historic achievement for India.
Speaking on potential collaborations between Sweden and India in the space sector, Fuglesang highlighted the mutual interest in sustainable space use. He acknowledged Sweden’s technological competence and suggested that collaboration with India would offer opportunities for knowledge exchange and joint advancements. Fuglesang welcomed the establishment of an Indian-Swedish Space Centre of Excellence to facilitate and enhance bilateral cooperation.
The astronaut also emphasized the importance of space exploration in addressing climate challenges, noting the vital role of space sustainability. Fuglesang, who is also a professor at KTH Royal Institute of Technology and a space advisor for Saab, expressed enthusiasm about the possibilities for India and Sweden to work together in various space-related initiatives.
India and Sweden have been partners in space technology for over three decades, dating back to a Memorandum of Understanding signed in 1986. Fuglesang’s visit to India includes meetings with ISRO and its IN-SPACE team to discuss ongoing and potential collaborations in space programs.
The interview took place during the celebration of 75 years of diplomatic relations between India and Sweden, where Fuglesang participated in a gala reception hosted by Sweden’s Ambassador to India, Jan Thesleff.
