Shubhanshu Shukla Describes Life After Space Return
Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who recently returned from an 18-day space mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), has shared how readjusting to Earth’s gravity has been unexpectedly challenging.
Everyday Items Suddenly Felt Heavy
Shukla said that after spending more than two weeks in microgravity, simple tasks became difficult once back on Earth. “Even the phone felt heavy,” he recalled. In one instance, he dropped his laptop on the floor after assuming it would float beside his bed, just as it would in space.
Mission Highlights and Scientific Work
Shukla was part of the four-member crew on the Axiom-4 private space mission. During the mission, the team conducted over 60 experiments, including seven developed in India. The research covered human physiology, cognitive function, tissue studies, plant biology, and microgravity impact on performance.
India’s Role and Future Goals
The Axiom-4 mission is considered a stepping stone for India’s upcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight program. Shukla’s participation helped test procedures and equipment for long-term crewed missions. ISRO invested around ₹550 crore in his training, mission support, and scientific contributions. Shukla did not receive any salary for his time in space.
Interacting With Students From Space
During his stay on the ISS, Shukla connected with school students across India, answering questions about life in space and how to become an astronaut. He said these conversations were among the most rewarding parts of his journey and reflect India’s growing interest in space science.
