Shubhanshu Shukla Sends “Namaskar from Space” Ahead of ISS Docking
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the Indian Air Force pilot who became India’s first astronaut in over four decades, sent a warm “Namaskar from space” to Earth as his SpaceX Dragon spacecraft orbited 418 km above the planet, en route to the International Space Station. This heartfelt message, broadcast during a live feed, marked a proud moment for India as it re-entered the domain of human spaceflight in the modern era.
Shukla is part of the international Axiom-4 mission and will be aboard the ISS for a two-week research assignment. Speaking candidly about his early adaptation to microgravity, Shukla said he was “learning like a baby—how to walk and eat in space,” and added that he’d been “sleeping a lot,” which he was told is a good sign in zero-gravity conditions. Sharing the humor and awe of his new environment, he remarked, “It is good to make mistakes, but it is better to see someone else do that too,” capturing the surreal camaraderie of space travel.
Adapting to Zero Gravity
As the SpaceX capsule maintained orbital velocity at around 7.5 km per second, Shukla described the surreal experience of floating inside the capsule for the first time. He recounted the moment he unbuckled from his seat and was momentarily suspended in silence—a feeling he described as both humbling and exhilarating. His focus now shifts to learning the day-to-day mechanics of life in space, from eating routines to executing basic movements.
Docking with the ISS
The Dragon spacecraft is scheduled to dock with the International Space Station at approximately 4:30 PM IST on June 26. Shukla will serve as a mission pilot and play a key role in the docking procedures, monitoring alignment systems and ensuring safe integration with the station’s Harmony module. During the 14-day stay, he will conduct seven scientific experiments, including research developed by Indian agencies in collaboration with NASA and Axiom Space.
A Legacy in Motion
Launched from Kennedy Space Center on June 25, this mission evokes memories of Rakesh Sharma’s historic journey in 1984. However, it also marks a major leap forward—Shukla’s participation is not just symbolic but operationally significant. As India moves closer to its own manned mission through Gaganyaan, the success of missions like Axiom-4 reinforces the country’s credibility and competence in crewed spaceflight.
Shukla’s “Namaskar” has become more than just a greeting—it symbolizes India’s growing presence in global space exploration. His mission is a reminder of the country’s expanding capabilities and ambitions, and a moment of unity and pride for millions watching from Earth.
