Shubhanshu Shukla’s Farewell from the ISS: India Shines Proudly from Space

In a momentous event for India’s space journey, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is set to return to Earth on Tuesday at 3:01 pm IST off the California coast after completing the Axiom-4 mission. This marks a significant milestone, coming 41 years after Rakesh Sharma became the first Indian in space.

While on the International Space Station (ISS), Shukla remarked on the changes in India’s space narrative. He reflected, “41 years ago, an Indian saw how our country looks from space. Today, India appears confident, ambitious, and proud.” This echoes the famous phrase Sharma shared during his historic flight.

Shukla, who was the mission pilot, led seven Indian-designed experiments in microgravity. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) confirmed that all experiments were successful, calling this mission a “significant leap” for India’s capabilities in space. This experience will provide crucial insights for future projects, including the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission.

India’s science minister, Jitendra Singh, emphasized the mission’s importance, expressing that the nation eagerly awaits Shukla’s return. According to reports, ISRO invested approximately $59 million in securing Shukla’s seat and training, highlighting the government’s commitment to advancing India’s space efforts.

Born on October 10, 1985, in Lucknow, Shukla joined the Indian Air Force in 2006. Over nearly two decades, he has logged over 2,000 flying hours. His astronaut training was transformative, as he carried “the hopes and dreams of a billion hearts” into orbit.

The Axiom-4 mission wasn’t just a personal achievement for Shukla; it represented international collaboration. It involved partnerships among NASA, SpaceX, the European Space Agency, and ISRO, illustrating the growing cooperation in space endeavors.

Recent trends show that interest in space has surged. According to a 2022 survey by the Pew Research Center, around 70% of Americans believe space exploration is vital for the future. This enthusiasm extends globally, especially among emerging space nations like India, which are eager to contribute.

The Ax-4 mission has set the stage for more ambitious projects, showcasing how collaboration can propel scientific progress. As Shukla prepares for his return, it’s clear that India’s space narrative is just beginning, and the possibilities are truly exciting.



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India,Space