Telangana Scientist Selected as Astronaut Candidate for 2029 Mission

Akula Mohan Sai, a research scientist from Huzurnagar in the Suryapet district of India, has been selected as an astronaut candidate for the 2029 Titans Space Mission. This announcement was made by Titans Space Industries (TSI), a company developing innovative spaceflight technologies. Sai’s selection marks a significant milestone in the representation of Indian professionals on the global stage in astronautics.

Educational Background and Research Contributions

A graduate in Astrobiology & Space Science, Sai is one of the first individuals from India to achieve this degree. He currently works at the Centre for Advanced Research in Space Psychology, which is funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and located at the Institute of Aerospace Medicine in Bengaluru. His research has focused on the Seed-to-Seed cycle of plants in lunar soil simulants, an area that is crucial for the advancement of lunar botany and the future of space farming.

Sai has gained extensive experience through participation in various national and international analogue astronaut missions. He has trained in locations such as Poland, Arizona, Ladakh, and Rajasthan, representing India in global discussions on astronautics and human space exploration. Notably, in July 2025, he served as Gagan-3 during India’s first indigenous analogue astronaut mission, known as the Gaganyaan Analogue Experiment – GYANEX-1. This mission played a critical role in validating India’s astronaut selection and psychology protocols.

Future Endeavors with Titans Space Industries

Titans Space Industries is spearheaded by founder Neal Lachman, who is leading the development of the Genesis Spaceplane. This reusable Single-Stage-to-Orbit vehicle is set to conduct its maiden Earth-Loop orbital cruise in 2029. In addition to the Genesis Spaceplane, TSI is also working on the Titans Orbital Port Space Station (TOPPS), the Selene cis-lunar missions, and plans for the Titania Lunar Base. Regular orbital and lunar expeditions are anticipated to follow the initial flight.

Sai’s selection as an astronaut candidate underscores the growing recognition of Indian scientists in the field of space exploration. His involvement not only highlights his personal achievements but also elevates the profile of Indian contributions to global space missions. As preparations for the 2029 Titans Space Mission continue, the international community will be watching closely the advancements made by Sai and his colleagues in their quest to push the boundaries of human spaceflight.