Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has returned to Earth after an 18-day mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission. His return marks a major milestone for India’s journey in human space exploration, bringing the country one step closer to launching its own astronauts under the Gaganyaan programme.
Shukla became the first Indian to pilot SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft, handling critical tasks such as launch, docking, and re-entry. His mission offered India valuable experience with commercial spacecraft operations. Onboard the ISS, he participated in over 60 scientific experiments, many led by Indian teams. These included studies on moong and methi plant growth, cyanobacteria and microalgae for life support systems, and experiments on tardigrades, muscle atrophy, and screen exposure in space. The findings will help design essential life-support and medical systems for future Indian missions.
Shukla also engaged with Indian students and researchers, sharing daily life experiences in space, such as managing hygiene and living in microgravity. These insights are critical for India’s human spaceflight planning
Shukla’s mission gave ISRO practical feedback on system integration, communication, and emergency procedures. His training and health monitoring offer a blueprint for selecting and preparing astronauts for Gaganyaan. The mission also strengthened India’s global space partnerships, working closely with NASA and SpaceX, and involved several Indian universities and startups, building a strong space-tech ecosystem.
Gaganyaan, India’s human spaceflight programme, will send a crew of three into Low Earth Orbit for up to seven days using indigenous technology. The first uncrewed test is planned for 2025, with a manned mission expected by 2027. Once completed, India will join the ranks of the US, Russia, and China as a nation capable of sending humans into space independently.
Shukla’s role in the Axiom-4 mission is not just a personal achievement, but a national leap forward in space technology, research, and global presence.
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