Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut to visit the International Space Station (ISS), has safely returned to Earth, marking a momentous occasion for India's space program. He splashed down in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California at approximately 3 PM IST on July 15, along with three other astronauts aboard SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft, successfully completing the Axiom Space Ax-4 mission.
Shukla's journey to the ISS began on June 26, when he launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from NASA's Kennedy Space Center. His 18-day mission saw him participate in various scientific and educational endeavors, conducting seven India-specific microgravity experiments. These experiments are expected to yield crucial data for future planetary missions and long-term space habitation, demonstrating India's growing capabilities in space science and technology. One key experiment involved studying space microalgae for their potential in producing food, oxygen, and biofuels, which could be vital for supporting human life on extended space missions. He also performed centrifugation of cyanobacteria, comparing two strains to understand how microgravity affects their growth and biochemical activity.
Shukla's mission, dubbed "Akash Ganga," represents a collaborative effort between Axiom Space, NASA, and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). ISRO invested approximately Rs 550 crore in Shukla's ISS travel, viewing it as a crucial experience for planning and executing the Gaganyaan mission, India's human spaceflight program slated for 2027. During his time on the ISS, Shukla completed over 310 orbits, covering an astounding 13 million kilometers.
This achievement positions Shukla as only the second Indian to travel to space, following Rakesh Sharma's mission aboard a Soviet spacecraft in 1984. His pioneering visit to the ISS is seen as a significant step forward in India's human spaceflight ambitions, paving the way for the Gaganyaan mission and the proposed Bhartiya Antariksha Station.
Upon Shukla's return, Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed him, stating that he "inspired a billion dreams through his dedication, courage and pioneering spirit". He also acknowledged the mission as "another milestone towards our own Human Space Flight Mission – Gaganyaan". Union Minister Jitendra Singh hailed it as a "moment of glory for India," emphasizing the nation's enduring presence in the world of space. Shukla's parents were also seen celebrating his safe return.
Shubhanshu Shukla's successful mission and safe return mark the beginning of India's deeper involvement in global human spaceflight initiatives. His contributions to scientific research on the ISS and the experience gained will undoubtedly play a vital role in shaping India's future space endeavors.
