During a media interaction on Thursday, May 18, 2023, union minister Jitendra Singh announced India's upcoming space missions and provided a timeline for the ambitious Gaganyaan mission.

He stated that the first Gaganyaan mission, scheduled for the end of 2023 or 2024, will be unmanned, followed by a second mission where a female robot will be sent.

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Singh emphasised the importance of ensuring the safety and security of future human missions by conducting preliminary non-human missions that will land in the water.

Singh also highlighted that the Gaganyaan mission would be significant as it would mark the first time an Indian-origin astronaut participates in an indigenous space mission.

He thanked the Prime Minister for funding the project, acknowledging the delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Singh mentioned that the training of astronauts at a Russian institute was completed in two stages, and the department had originally aimed to launch the Gaganyaan mission within 75 years of India's independence.

Singh expressed the anticipation of the world regarding India's progress in space exploration, especially the historic moment when Gaganyaan carried Indian astronauts to the final frontier.

It is worth noting that the female robot mentioned by Singh, which the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) plans to send to space, has been named Vyomamitra.

The name Vyomamitra is derived from two Sanskrit words: "Vyoma," meaning "space," and "Mitra," meaning "friend."

Vyomamitra is equipped with advanced capabilities to monitor various module parameters and provide alerts when necessary. Additionally, it can perform critical life support operations, ensuring the safety and well-being of the astronauts during their space missions.

Moreover, Vyomamitra serves not only as a functional asset but also as a companion for the astronauts. It can engage in conversations, recognise the astronauts it interacts with, and intelligently respond to their inquiries and requests.

This interaction capability enhances the astronauts' overall experience, facilitating a more seamless and personalised mission environment.

Vyomamitra combines cutting-edge technology with a friendly demeanour, making it a valuable asset for space exploration missions. Its monitoring and life support capabilities, conversational skills, and astronaut recognition contribute to a safer and more engaging space journey for the astronauts involved.