Sun Jun 29 18:12:57 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has become the first Indian astronaut on the International Space Station, though he initially experienced space sickness. Dr. Brigitte Godard, a seasoned flight surgeon from the European Space Agency, assures the public that Shukla is medically fit and well-prepared for the challenges of spaceflight due to his extensive training as a fighter pilot and the continuous medical oversight provided by flight surgeons and his designated “family physician,” Dr. Punyashlok Biswal. While spaceflight can affect human physiology, Dr. Godard expresses confidence in Shukla’s well-being and the mission’s success, emphasizing the close, long-term relationship between astronauts and their flight surgeons.

**News Article:**

**Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla Makes History on ISS, Flight Surgeon Assures Public of His Well-Being**

**International Space Station -** Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has made history as the first Indian astronaut to reach the International Space Station (ISS). While his arrival was marked by initial bouts of space sickness, Dr. Brigitte Godard, a flight surgeon with the European Space Agency, has assured the public that Shukla is medically fit and prepared for his mission.

“Mr. Shukla should be fairly fine in space, and they will be proud of him,” Dr. Godard stated in an exclusive interview, emphasizing Shukla’s years of rigorous fighter pilot training and dedicated medical oversight.

The Indian Air Force has deputed space medicine specialist Dr. Punyashlok Biswal from the Institute of Aerospace Medicine (IAM) as Shukla’s “family physician” throughout his time on the ISS. This arrangement underscores the personalized care provided to astronauts.

Dr. Godard explained that flight surgeons act as physicians for astronauts, conducting weekly telemedicine check-ins to monitor health and address any concerns. She noted the astronaut is well-trained and should be fairly fine in space.

While spaceflight can have physiological effects, Dr. Godard expressed confidence in Shukla’s mission, noting the short duration of his stay.

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