Indian-American astronaut Anil Menon gears up for first space mission in 2026

NASA astronaut Anil Menon is preparing for his first journey into space as part of a long-duration mission to the International Space Station (ISS) in June 2026. Menon, a physician and engineer, will serve as a flight engineer for Expedition 75 and launch aboard the Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft with two Russian crew members, Pyotr Dubrov and Anna Kikina. The launch will take place from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.

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The team will spend around eight months on the ISS, conducting a range of scientific experiments and tests that aim to benefit both space exploration and life back on Earth. Menon was selected by NASA in 2021 and officially became an astronaut in 2024 after completing rigorous training.

Menon has a diverse background that blends medicine, engineering, and military service. He holds a medical degree from Stanford, an undergraduate degree in neurobiology from Harvard, and a master’s in mechanical engineering.

Before joining NASA’s astronaut program, Menon worked with SpaceX as its first flight surgeon. He played a crucial role in preparing for and supporting crewed spaceflights, including the historic Demo-2 mission. He also helped design SpaceX’s medical operations for future space missions.

Apart from his work in aerospace, Menon continues to treat patients and mentor medical trainees in Houston. He is also a licensed pilot and avid endurance athlete. His wife, Anna Menon, works at SpaceX, and the couple has two children.