Shubhanshu Returns to Earth After Historic Space Mission

New Delhi: Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla successfully returns to Earth today, marking the triumphant conclusion of a groundbreaking space mission. Accompanied by Commander Peggy Whitson, ESA astronaut Slawosz “Suave” Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland, and HUNOR astronaut Tibor Kapu, Shukla splashes down safely near the Pacific Ocean around 3 PM IST (3 AM California time) on Tuesday. The 18 -day space expedition ends after a smooth 22-hour return journey.

The Axiom team also brings back 236 kilograms of cargo, including experiments conducted in microgravity, such as growing saplings from different seed varieties.

Shubhanshu becomes the first Indian astronaut to reach the International Space Station (ISS), placing him among the pioneers of Indian space exploration. NASA, ISRO, and global space agencies confirm the safe landing and hail the moment as a proud milestone for India.

His parents, watching the live broadcast, are visibly emotional as their son emerges from the capsule. "We couldn't be prouder," his father says, expressing gratitude to the nation and ISRO.

During their stay aboard the ISS, the Ax-iom 4 crew completes approximately 230 orbits around Earth, covering a distance of nearly 9.65 million kilometers and witnessing 230 sunrises in orbit.

The Axiom-4 mission lifted off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on June 25, with the Dragon spacecraft docking at the ISS after a 28-hour journey.

The mission, a collaboration between ISRO and international partners, is celebrated as a major step in India’s expanding human spaceflight program.