Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, who recently returned from a mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), has captivated audiences with a stunning timelapse video of India as seen from space. The video offers a unique perspective of the country, showcasing its diverse landscapes and vibrant city lights from a vantage point rarely seen.
Shukla's journey to the ISS was a landmark moment for India's space program. As the second Indian to travel to space, he carried the hopes and aspirations of a nation eager to make its mark in human spaceflight. His mission, part of the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) crew, involved conducting over 60 experiments from 31 countries, including seven led by India's ISRO.
The astronaut shared his experiences of living in microgravity and conducting experiments that would help humanity. "In a realm like space exploration, in decades of global collaboration, the moment in this mission that stood out for me was speaking to the prime minister of Bharat while the Indian flag floated behind me," Shukla said. He emphasized that India is ready not just to fly but to lead.
Beyond the scientific endeavors, Shukla also focused on capturing the beauty of Earth from space. The timelapse video of India is a testament to his efforts, providing a breathtaking view of the country's geographical features, from the Himalayas to the glowing cities at night.
Shukla's shared a video on Instagram practicing staying still in microgravity. "From the time we reached the ISS, we were quite busy chasing the timeline and completing our tasks and experiments. It is a bit challenging initially, as you are learning to move in microgravity and also getting to know the station," Shukla wrote.
The astronaut's mission and the videos he shared have ignited a sense of pride and inspiration among Indians, especially the younger generation. They highlight the potential for India to become a major player in the future of space exploration.