It’s a practice to carry soft toy to space: Shubhanshu’s sister
In a heartwarming and unusual move, IAF Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla carried a soft toy on his journey to the International Space Station. The toy, which was chosen by his young son, has sparked curiosity and delight among space enthusiasts and the general public alike. In an interview, Shubhanshu’s sister Shuchi Mishra shed light on the significance of carrying a soft toy to space, revealing that it’s a long-standing tradition among space travelers.
According to Shuchi, carrying a soft toy to space is indeed a practice that has been followed by many space explorers, including Shubhanshu. She explained, “It’s their practice of carrying a soft toy to the space station and floating it.” This tradition is a testament to the human touch that space travel often lacks, and it’s a reminder that even in the vastness of space, there is always room for a little bit of whimsy and joy.
The soft toy that Shubhanshu carried to space was chosen by his young son, who is the youngest of the four crew members on the mission. Shuchi revealed that this was a deliberate choice, saying, “Of all the four crew members, Shubhanshu’s son is the youngest. So, he was given the task of selecting the soft toy.” This decision not only added a personal touch to the mission but also provided an opportunity for Shubhanshu’s son to be involved in his father’s historic journey.
The decision to carry a soft toy to space may seem unusual, but it highlights the importance of maintaining a sense of normalcy and humanity in the face of extraordinary circumstances. Even in the most challenging and unforgiving environments, there is always a need for comfort, joy, and a sense of connection to the people and things we love.
Shubhanshu’s journey to the International Space Station is a remarkable achievement, and the fact that he carried a soft toy with him is a testament to his personality and the values he holds dear. As a Group Captain in the Indian Air Force, Shubhanshu has dedicated his life to serving his country and pushing the boundaries of human exploration. His decision to carry a soft toy to space is a reflection of his commitment to his family and his desire to share in their joys and sorrows.
The tradition of carrying a soft toy to space is not unique to Shubhanshu or his family. In fact, many space travelers have carried personal items with them on their missions, including photos, mementos, and even religious artifacts. These items serve as a reminder of the people and places they have left behind and provide a sense of comfort and familiarity in the face of the unknown.
As Shubhanshu and his crewmates continue their mission on the International Space Station, their soft toy companion will remain a symbol of the human spirit and its ability to find joy and beauty in even the most extraordinary of circumstances. Whether it’s a soft toy, a photo, or a memento, the personal items that space travelers carry with them serve as a reminder that, no matter where we go or what we do, we are always connected to the people and things we love.
In conclusion, the decision to carry a soft toy to space may seem unusual, but it highlights the importance of maintaining a sense of normalcy and humanity in the face of extraordinary circumstances. As Shubhanshu and his crewmates continue their mission on the International Space Station, their soft toy companion will remain a symbol of the human spirit and its ability to find joy and beauty in even the most extraordinary of circumstances.
