Mar 30 2025 to Mar 30 2025 11 a.m.

EVENT HAS ENDED

Where

Bangalore International Centre

7 4th Main Rd, Stage 2, Domlur 560071

Event Description

As humanity prepares to establish colonies in space, it is imperative that we pause for introspection and course correction.

We must critically examine the societal norms we practice on Earth, for failing to do so risks repeating our bloodstained history on new celestial frontiers. Now, more than ever, we have the knowledge to address the very factors that have led to environmental degradation, the overuse of non-renewable resources, and the inequitable distribution of wealth—factors that have fueled conflicts, destruction, and loss of life.

Restructuring human society on Earth to address these challenges is not just necessary—it is essential. Doing so will provide a model for space-based communities, ensuring that future generations thrive in sustainable, equitable environments.

The prospect of space colonization offers a unique opportunity: to build societies free from the burdens of legacy issues and to establish governance and social structures that align with sustainable development goals within the framework of the global commons.

The future of humanity beyond Earth must not be a mere extension of our past—it must be a deliberate reimagining of what we can become.

In collaboration with The School for Democracy and Asha Dey and family, in the memory of Air Marshal PK Dey.

Speaker

Rakesh Sharma
Wing Commander AC (Retd.)
Rakesh Sharma, a distinguished fighter pilot and astronaut, graduated from the National Defence Academy in December 1968 and joined the Indian Air Force. During the 1971 Indo-Pak War, he flew 21 operational missions in a MiG-21 before being selected for the prestigious Test Pilots Course in 1975.

As a test pilot for 15 years, he played a crucial role in evaluating aircraft, weapons, and systems. In 1984, he became the first Indian to travel to space as part of the Joint Indo-Soviet Space Mission, spending eight days in near-Earth orbit. For his contributions, he was awarded the Ashoka Chakra by the Indian government and honored with the Hero of the Soviet Union and the Order of Lenin by the Soviet government.

Returning to test flying, Sharma served as Chief Project Pilot for ‘Tejas,’ India’s Light Combat Aircraft, and later as Chief Test Pilot at Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL), where he worked on the Intermediate Jet Trainer project. Over his 33-year flying career, he accumulated 4,000 flight hours on all frontline fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force.

Post-retirement from test flying in 2001, he transitioned to the IT industry, leading the Indian Aerospace and Defence business unit of Parametric Technology Corporation, USA. He later served as Chairman of the Board at Candela Labs, Bangalore, until his retirement in 2019.