Shubhanshu Shukla Lifts India’s Space Dreams
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, a 39-year-old Indian Air Force officer and experimental test pilot, has returned safely from space after becoming the first Indian to visit the International Space Station (ISS). He was part of the private Axiom-4 mission, which lasted 19 days, including 18 days aboard the ISS.
The mission concluded on July 15, 2025, with the Dragon capsule “Grace” splashing down off the coast of California around 3:01 PM IST. Shukla, along with three international astronauts, returned with over 260 kg of scientific data and equipment. He is currently undergoing post-mission medical evaluation in the United States and is expected to return to India by mid-August.
During his stay on the ISS, Shukla conducted multiple microgravity experiments in fields ranging from crop biology and muscle loss to radiation impact on living organisms. These experiments were part of India’s ongoing efforts to enhance its scientific footprint in human spaceflight and lay the groundwork for long-term space presence.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded Shukla’s achievement, stating that he had “lifted India’s aspirations to new heights.” The minister also spoke to Shukla’s father, praising the family’s contribution to the nation and expressing pride in India’s growing space capabilities.
Celebrations broke out in Shukla’s hometown of Lucknow, where locals gathered to express joy and pride. Family members were seen overwhelmed with emotion, calling his return a moment of national glory.
Shukla’s journey is seen as a key milestone ahead of India’s own human spaceflight programme, Gaganyaan, which is expected to launch Indian astronauts aboard an indigenous spacecraft. His successful mission strengthens India’s role in global space collaborations and boosts morale for future crewed missions under Indian command.
