Coimbatore: Indian astronauts are likely to travel to a space station through the Gaganyaan mission within the next four years, former ISRO director Mylswamy Annadurai has said.

Speaking to reporters in Coimbatore, Annadurai noted that space travel has become routine, but adapting to a zero-gravity environment requires extensive training. "Every month, a spacecraft carrying fuel and supplies reaches the International Space Station (ISS), accommodating up to seven astronauts at a time," he said.

Referring to Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams, he said she has spent several months in space, demonstrating exceptional physical and mental resilience. "She remained aboard the ISS longer than planned due to concerns over the safety of her return spacecraft. Now, she is returning as the commander of a seven-member crew," he added.

Annadurai highlighted that India's Gaganyaan mission is progressing, with an unmanned test flight scheduled within two years. The country's first human spaceflight under the mission is expected in the next three to four years, he said.