Look Up, India! Your Sky Might Just Be Holding a Hero Tonight
Manashimaya
If you’ve ever wished to witness a piece of space history with your own eyes, the time is now. Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS) — and for a few magical days, you can actually spot the station soaring above your city.
What Makes the ISS So Special?
The International Space Station isn’t just a spacecraft; it’s a global laboratory and symbol of unity in science. Orbiting Earth at a mind-boggling speed of 28,000 km/h, the ISS completes one full circle around our planet every 90 minutes. That’s 16 sunrises and sunsets a day!
Built and operated by a coalition of space agencies from the USA, Russia, Japan, Canada, Europe, and now, proudly India, the ISS is one of the most impressive feats of human collaboration in history. And with Shubhanshu Shukla on board, India has added another glowing chapter to its space journey.
How Can You See It From Earth?
Catching a glimpse of the ISS is easier than you think—and you don’t need a telescope!
Here’s how:
When? Just after sunset or right before sunrise.
What to look for? A bright, fast-moving star streaking across the sky.
How long? Usually 5–7 minutes. Blink and you might miss it!
Unlike aircraft, the ISS doesn’t blink. It shines steadily as it reflects sunlight, giving you a clear view against the darker sky.
Apps That Make It Easier:
Don’t want to miss your cosmic moment? Use these free apps to get precise tracking:
Spot the Station (by NASA)
ISS Detector
These apps will tell you:
The exact time it will be visible over your cit y
The direction to look
The duration and altitude (angle in the sky)
Some even include AR (Augmented Reality)—just point your phone at the sky!
Best Tips for Spotting the ISS:
Pick twilight hours: Just after sunset or before sunrise is perfect.
Find a clear view: Avoid tall buildings and trees.
Be ready and alert: The ISS is fast—it won’t pause for your photo.
Use AR tracking to pinpoint its path.
Wave anyway: He won’t see you, but the emotion matters.
Don’t fret about clouds: Monsoon skies may block your view, but more chances are coming.
The ISS will be visible again between July 24 and August 1. By then, Shukla may have returned home—so don’t miss this window.
How Just ₹4 Helped Launch a Dream
India’s role in this mission came at an astonishingly low cost. Based on the total mission expenditure divided by India’s population, it’s estimated that each citizen’s share is just ₹4.
This means India wrote a chapter in global space history with the cost of a cup of tea per person—a testament to ISRO’s efficiency, innovation, and frugality.
It’s a powerful reminder that every Indian contributed to this proud moment, no matter how small the amount.
A Moment of Unity
As Indians from Bengaluru to Bareilly tilt their heads skyward, we’re reminded that the ISS belongs to all humanity. It’s a floating beacon of peace, science, and dreams.
India’s role in this mission cost just ₹4 per citizen—a small price for a giant leap in space legacy.
Through an Astronaut’s Eyes: What Shubhanshu Shukla Sees from Space”
During a historic video call, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Shukla, “You are far from the motherland, but close to every Indian’s heart.” Shukla’s response was poetic:
“From space, there are no borders. The Earth looks united. Bharat looks grand.”
His words echo Rakesh Sharma’s legendary 1984 line:
“Saare Jahaan Se Achha.”
So tonight, step out, look up, and feel that shared wonder. You might not be on the ISS—but your spirit certainly is.