Astronaut Returns: Shubhanshu Shukla’s Triumphant Return After 230 Sunrises and a 10-Million-Kilometer Odyssey

I. A Journey Among the Stars: India’s Astronaut Returns

On July 15, 2025, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla safely splashed down near the coast of California, concluding his 17-day mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission. This historic flight made him the first Indian to visit the ISS and the second Indian astronaut in space after Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 mission.

Launched from Kennedy Space Center on June 25, Shukla docked with the ISS on June 26, where he conducted seven India-specific microgravity experiments in collaboration with ISRO, NASA, and DBT. His mission, dubbed Akash Ganga, is a cornerstone in India’s roadmap toward Gaganyaan and the proposed Bhartiya Antariksha Station.

During his time in orbit, Shukla:

• Witnessed 230 sunrises
• Traveled nearly 10 million kilometers
• Participated in over 60 scientific activities
• Engaged in 20+ outreach events, including live chats with students from Kerala and Lucknow

II. Science in Space: Experiments That Shape the Future

Shukla’s mission wasn’t just symbolic—it was deeply scientific. His work focused on biological resilience, crew nutrition, and sustainable space farming, with experiments designed to inform long-duration missions and planetary colonization.

Completed Experiments:

• Tardigrades (Bengaluru strain): Studied survival, reproduction, and transcriptomic changes in microgravity
• Myogenesis: Investigated muscle cell development in space
• Sprouting of Methi and Moong Seeds: Explored viability of space-grown crops
• Cyanobacteria: Monitored growth for life support applications

Nearing Completion:

• Microalgae: Assessed potential for food, oxygen, and biofuel production
• Crop Seeds: Studied genetic and microbial changes post-orbit
• Voyager Display: A behavioral and cognitive health study using VR and neural monitoring

These experiments are now being packed for return and further analysis. ISRO confirmed that Shukla remains in excellent health and high spirits, with flight surgeons monitoring his condition throughout the mission.

III. National Pride and the Road Ahead

Shukla’s return has ignited a wave of national pride. His mission symbolizes India’s technological prowess, global collaboration, and ambition to lead in space exploration. Prime Minister Modi hailed the astronaut’s achievements, emphasizing the importance of documenting his observations for future missions.

Upon splashdown, Shukla will undergo a seven-day rehabilitation program to readjust to Earth’s gravity. His performance will be pivotal in shaping Gaganyaan, India’s first indigenous human spaceflight, scheduled for late 2025 or early 2026.

The success of Akash Ganga also strengthens India’s position in international space partnerships, with ISRO now seen as a serious contender in human spaceflight. Shukla’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when science, ambition, and national spirit align.

Orbit Exit: Shubhanshu Shukla and Ax-4 Crew Prepare for Triumphant Return from ISS

Shubhanshu Shukla Soars to Glory: India’s Triumphant Return to Space After 41 Years