Indian astronaut and Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla returned home on Wednesday, reuniting with his family after an emotional 18-day mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). His journey as part of the private Axiom-4 mission has been hailed as a significant achievement in India’s expanding narrative in space exploration.
Shukla, who served as the mission pilot, made history by becoming the first Indian to travel to the ISS. He embarked on this groundbreaking venture on June 25, 2025, alongside a four-member crew in a SpaceX spacecraft launched by Texas-based Axiom Space. The crew spent a total of 20 days in space, with 18 of those days devoted to research aboard the ISS.
During his time in space, Shukla conducted several innovative microgravity experiments that focused on diverse areas including muscle regeneration, algal and microbial growth, crop viability, cognitive performance, and the behavior of cyanobacteria in space. These efforts were part of international collaborations aimed at enhancing space biology and developing technologies essential for deep-space exploration.
Upon his return, Shukla was welcomed by his wife, Kamna, who had been in the United States since his training commenced. “Now that Shubhanshu has safely returned, our immediate focus will be on his rehabilitation and ensuring he smoothly readjusts to life on Earth. For us, simply being reunited after this incredible journey is a celebration in itself,” she shared with reporters.
The mission has garnered widespread acclaim across India. In a show of solidarity, the Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, passed a resolution expressing admiration for Shukla’s achievement, deeming it a “moment of pride, glory, and joy” that symbolizes India’s burgeoning global presence in space science and innovation. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the statement from the Cabinet, emphasizing national pride in Shukla’s successful return from the ISS.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also extended his congratulations, attributing the state’s youth for their significant role in amplifying India’s legacy in space research and innovation.
The Axiom-4 mission represents the fourth private astronaut venture to the ISS, and it plays a crucial role in Axiom Space’s ambitious vision to establish the world’s first commercial space station. Shukla’s participation strengthens India’s position on the global stage of space-faring nations.
As the nation celebrates this achievement, India is also poised for further advancements in human spaceflight, particularly with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) gearing up for the forthcoming Gaganyaan mission. This initiative aims to send Indian astronauts into low-Earth orbit using a completely indigenous spacecraft, marking yet another milestone in the country’s space exploration journey.
