News and Events ANATOLY BEREZOVOY MEETS RAKESH SHARMA AT RCSC

New Delhi, February 8, 2008: Noted Russian Pilot-Cosmonaut, Hero of Russia, Mr. Anatoly Berezovoy, had the first meeting with the Famous Indian Cosmonaut, Mr. Rakesh Shama, after the historic Indo-Russian space flight 24 years ago in 1984, at a function organized at the Russian Centre of Science & Culture, 24, Feroszeshah Road, New Delhi, on February 7, 2008. Neither of the two has lost the warmth and friendship they forged a quarter of century ago. Mr. Rakesh Sharma exhorted the young children mobbed around him to see big dreams and try to fulfill them. The event took place within the framework of the "Year of Russia in India", and as part of the Russian participation in the 18th World Book Fair, at which Russia is a Guest of Honour.

Welcoming the elite gathering of scientists, academics, diplomats and others, Mr. Fyodor A. Rozovskiy, Director, RCSC, said it was a proud moment in the life of the Centre to welcome the Russian and Indian cosmonauts who remained legendary personalities for the peoples of the two countries.

Dr. N. Rathnasree, Director, Nehru Planetarium, who was present at the function, lauded the remarkable contributions made by Mr. Rakesh Sharma to the scientific community in general and the country's space technology in particular. She hailed the commendable initiatives and efforts of the Russian side in strengthening Indo-Russian cooperation in space science.

Mr. Anatoly Berezovoy had trained Mr.Rakesh Sharma for the joint space flight. He hardly understands English, but his face lights up at the mention of Rakesh Sharma's name, and quickly opens his book showing their picture onboard the Soviet Space Station Salyut-7. Graduating from the Air Force Academy, he was retired as a Colonel of the Soviet Air Force. He had been Commandeer of Soyuz 23, Soyuz 24, Soyuz T-11 and Soyuz TM-6. In all, he had the credit of spending 211 days, nine days and four minutes in space.

Sharing his impressions, Mr. Rakesh Sharma said that he never dreamed of a space flight, for technology had not developed to such an extent as on today, and when the real assignment came to him he utilized the opportunity in the best way possible. Making his readiness to share his knowledge and experience to Indian Space Research Organization, Mr. Sharma also expressed his willingness to fly again to outer space if similar occasion comes handy. Admitting that he could not see any living being of outer planets, he did not rule out the possibility of its existence. He is hopeful that the days are not far off when human beings land on other planets, too. Tracing his relations with Russia, he referred to his first visit to that country in connection with the test flight of MIG 21. He also spoke high of the credence of Russian technology which stood him in good stead in his career.

To a question whether he could see any living beings from other planets, Mr. Anatoly Berezovoy replied in the negative. He was in a nostalgic sprit when he shared his experience with his Indian colleague Mr. Rakesh Sharma in the course of the training. A documentary film on the technological features and conditions of space flights was also screened on the occasion.