Palakkad, 15 July (H.S.):Anil Menon, a NASA astronaut and US Space Force colonel of Malayali origin, has scripted a landmark moment in space exploration by becoming the first person of Malayali heritage to arrive at the International Space Station (ISS). His successful journey to the orbiting laboratory marks a proud milestone for the global Malayali community and adds another chapter to NASA's international human spaceflight programme.

Dr Menon reached the ISS along with two Russian cosmonauts after a successful launch aboard a Soyuz spacecraft from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. The mission lifted off at 8.17 pm IST on July 14 aboard a Soyuz 2.1a launch vehicle. Accompanying him on the expedition are veteran Russian cosmonauts Pyotr Dubrov and Anna Kikina.

Following a flawless ascent, the Soyuz spacecraft entered its planned orbit and began its automated rendezvous with the International Space Station. After completing the orbital approach, the spacecraft successfully docked with the station's zenith port at around 11.30 pm IST. Engineers and mission controllers monitored every stage of the flight to ensure a smooth and precise docking sequence.

After the completion of standard safety checks and pressure equalisation between the spacecraft and the space station, the hatches were opened at around 2 am IST, allowing Dr Menon and his fellow crew members to enter the ISS. The new arrivals were warmly welcomed by the station's existing crew, marking the official beginning of their long-duration mission in orbit.

Over the coming months, Dr Menon and his colleagues will participate in a broad range of scientific investigations and technology demonstrations aimed at advancing human spaceflight. Their work will include experiments in biology, medicine, physics and engineering, as well as studies examining how prolonged exposure to microgravity affects the human body. The findings are expected to contribute to preparations for future deep-space missions, including planned expeditions to the Moon and Mars.

Dr Menon's arrival at the ISS has drawn widespread attention, particularly among Indians and the global Malayali diaspora, who view his achievement as a source of immense pride. As the first person of Malayali heritage to live and work aboard the International Space Station, his mission stands as an inspiring example of excellence in science, technology and international cooperation in space exploration.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman