Archive · 24 Aug 2026
Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla Calls for Planet-First Space Exploration
Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla said Earth is humanity’s home and should be protected.
He explained that people may think of themselves as belonging to their city, country and eventually the whole planet.
He said space exploration is useful, but it should not become necessary because people failed to care for Earth.
He shared this message during a cycling event in Hyderabad.
Around 600 people took part in the ride.
The ride covered 16.2 kilometres.
It encouraged people to cycle, stay healthy and protect nature.
Participants also promised to make environmentally responsible choices.
Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla urged people to protect Earth’s resources before relying on space exploration.
He made the remarks at the third Cyclothon, Pedal for the Planet, in Hyderabad on National Space Day.
About 600 cyclists joined the 16.2-kilometre ride organized by Rashtrapati Nilayam, NMDC and local cycling groups.
The event promoted cycling, environmental conservation and healthy living among communities, students and defence personnel.
Participants took an environmental pledge, while Shukla and Maj. Gen. Rahul Dev Sharma flagged off adult and child cyclists.
- Who
- Astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, Maj. Gen. Rahul Dev Sharma and about 600 cyclists participated.
- What
- A 16.2-kilometre environmental-awareness cyclothon was held, where Shukla urged a planet-first approach to space exploration.
- When
- On National Space Day, on a Sunday; the articles do not provide an exact date.
- Where
- Rashtrapati Nilayam in Bolaram, Hyderabad, with the route going toward Suchitra Circle and back.
- Why
- The event aimed to promote cycling, environmental conservation and healthy living, while Shukla urged protection of Earth’s resources.
- Event
- Third edition of the Cyclothon, Pedal for the Planet
- Participants
- About 600 cyclists
- Distance
- 16.2 kilometres
- Starting point
- Rashtrapati Nilayam, Bolaram
- Organizers
- Rashtrapati Nilayam, National Mineral Development Corporation and Hyderabad cycling groups
- Message
- Space exploration should not become necessary because humanity failed to protect Earth
- Additional activity
- Participants took an environmental pledge promoting conservation and healthy living