Who's Anil Menon, NASA astronaut set for 240-day ISS mission?
What's the story
Anil Menon, a NASA astronaut of Indian origin, is set to embark on his first-ever space mission on July 14, 2026. He will be launched aboard Russia's Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft from Kazakhstan's Baikonur Cosmodrome. Menon will spend some eight months in orbit as part of Expeditions 74 and 75 aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The mission is expected to last until spring 2027.
Research focus
Research during mission
During his time on the ISS, Menon will work as a flight engineer and participate in scientific research and technology. The studies are designed to prepare for future human exploration of the Moon and Mars. They include investigations into how microgravity affects blood flow, vein structure, and the production of intravenous fluids using the station's water supply.
Background
He holds a Bachelor's degree in Neurobiology from Harvard University
Born in Minneapolis to Indian and Ukrainian immigrant parents, Menon has an impressive academic background. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Neurobiology from Harvard University as well as a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Medical Doctorate from Stanford University. Before becoming an astronaut, he was NASA's expedition flight surgeon for ISS missions and SpaceX's first flight surgeon who helped develop medical support systems for crewed flights.
Preparation
Other notable achievements
Menon was selected as part of NASA's 2021 astronaut class. After two years of intensive training, he graduated as an astronaut in 2024. He is also a certified flight instructor with over 1,000 flying hours and has participated in endurance events such as Ironman races and the elite Kokoro challenge. Menon is married to Anna Menon, a SpaceX employee, and they have two children together.