Shubhanshu Shukla returning from Axiom-4 Mission marks a historic moment for India. The astronaut will undock from the International Space Station (ISS) on July 14, NASA said.
His 14-day mission enthralled the nation. It reflected India’s increasing space ambitions.
Mission Overview
The Axiom-4 mission took off on June 25, 2025, from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. The mission pilot was Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla.
The other crew members were Peggy Whitson (commander), Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, and Tibor Kapu.
The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft docked the ISS on June 26 following a 28-hour journey. The crew made almost 230 orbits over a distance of 96.5 million kilometers. They saw 230 sunrises, a reminder of their orbital journey.
Scientific Achievements
Shubhanshu Shukla worked on more than 60 experiments. These ranged from biomedical science, to neuroscience, to agriculture.
He performed seven ISRO-sponsored microgravity experiments. Of these, growing methi and moong seeds and cultivating microalgae were major studies. These are designed to improve space life-support systems.
Shukla also participated in five NASA-ISRO joint investigations. His work on skeletal muscle degradation could aid treatments on Earth. The research by the crew assists India’s Gaganyaan mission.
Public Engagement and Impact
Shukla inspired the millions back home. He interacted with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and scientists at ISRO. He addressed college students through HAM radio, telling them about his experience in the space.
Modi acknowledged Shukla’s contribution towards space farming as a milestone. X posts were expressions of national pride, with people hailing his journey. One post went as, “Shukla carries India’s dreams to the stars.” His contributions make India’s space program stronger.
Why the Delayed Return?
The crew was scheduled to return on July 14 due to a high beta period. This phase leads to constant sunlight on the ISS, potentially overheating.
NASA cautiously planned the undocking to make sure safety of the team. Steve Stitch, NASA’s Commercial Crew Program Manager, confirmed the date.
The team used their final off-duty day to capture Earth’s views. They reached out to loved ones, looking back on their mission.
Shubhanshu Shukla Returning from Axiom-4 Mission: A New Era for India
Shubhanshu Shukla’s return is the conclusion of a historic mission. He is following in Rakesh Sharma’s footsteps of his 1984 flight as the first Indian to travel on the ISS.
His endeavor opens the door to India’s space plans, including a space station in 2035. The nation awaits his splashdown with excitement at a new age of space travel.
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