Why is Shubhanshu Shukla carrying a soft toy to space?

Shubhanshu Shukla will carry a special white plush swan named "Joy" to space as part of a long-standing astronaut tradition that serves both practical and symbolic purposes during spaceflight. This tradition dates back to 1961 when Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin first brought a soft toy during his historic spaceflight, establishing a practice that has been continued by both Russian and American astronauts for over six decades. The soft toy serves as a zero-gravity indicator, providing a visual confirmation that the spacecraft has successfully entered the microgravity environment of space.

The practical function of Joy as a zero-gravity indicator is crucial for crew safety and mission operations. When the spacecraft reaches orbit and the engines shut down, the transition to weightlessness is not always immediately apparent to the crew due to the gradual nature of the process and the enclosed environment of the spacecraft. Joy will begin to float freely in the cabin when true microgravity conditions are achieved, providing clear visual confirmation to the crew that they have successfully entered orbit and that spacecraft systems are functioning normally.

The selection of a swan as the soft toy carries deep symbolic meaning, representing grace, unity, and India's rich cultural heritage. Swans are revered in Indian culture and mythology, often associated with purity, wisdom, and transcendence. The choice of a white swan specifically may reference the Hamsa, a sacred symbol in Hindu and Buddhist traditions representing the soul's journey and spiritual elevation. By carrying Joy to space, Shukla brings a piece of Indian culture and spirituality to the International Space Station, sharing these values with his international crew members.

The emotional and psychological benefits of carrying personal items like Joy cannot be understated in the context of space missions. Space travel, despite its scientific importance, can be psychologically challenging due to isolation from Earth, confinement in small spaces, and separation from loved ones. Personal items that provide comfort and connection to home culture help maintain crew morale and psychological well-being throughout the mission. Joy serves as a tangible reminder of Earth and home, providing emotional support during the demanding 14-day mission.

Additionally, Joy will become a certified space-flown object upon return to Earth, making it a valuable piece of space history and a meaningful memento of India's space achievements. Space-flown items hold special significance in space exploration history, often becoming museum pieces or family heirlooms that commemorate historic missions. The soft toy's journey to space and back will make it a symbol of India's return to human spaceflight and its growing presence in international space cooperation, inspiring future generations of Indian scientists and explorers