In this episode of OPEN Dialogues, astronaut and author Shubhanshu Shukla joins Sohini Dey for a wide-ranging conversation about spaceflight, perspective, and India's ambitions beyond Earth.
Drawing from his new book, The Second Orbit, Shukla reflects on the journey from astronaut training to life aboard the International Space Station. He speaks candidly about the physical realities of space travel—the nausea, discomfort, and relentless preparation—as well as the emotional impact of seeing Earth from orbit for the first time.
He explains why he believes every child should be able to imagine becoming an astronaut, discusses the lessons being fed into India's Gaganyaan mission, and shares what he missed most while in space—from family and friends to Indian food. Along the way, he talks about the "overview effect," the possibility of extraterrestrial life, his favourite science-fiction stories, and why space teaches humility more than anything else.
The conversation also explores India's growing space ecosystem, the role of private startups, the importance of scientific curiosity, and what it means to inspire the next generation of explorers.
A thoughtful discussion about ambition, perspective, science, and humanity's future beyond our planet.