Axiom-4 Return: Shubhanshu Shukla Returns to Earth After Historic ISS Mission

In a moment that will go down in India’s space history, astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla safely returned to Earth on Tuesday after completing an 18-day mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The spacecraft carrying the four-membered Axiom-4 crew made a safe splashdown in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California at approximately 3:01 PM IST, as confirmed by SpaceX.

“Splashdown of Dragon confirmed — welcome back to Earth,” SpaceX posted on its official handle.The Dragon capsule, operated by SpaceX, re-entered Earth’s atmosphere and deployed its parachutes before making a smooth landing in the ocean. Recovery teams were on standby and began post-landing safety protocols, which included medical checks and cabin pressurization verification.

🇮🇳 India’s Shining Moment in Space

Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut to reach the ISS, was seen smiling and waving at cameras as he emerged from the capsule, supported gently by the recovery team as he reacclimated to Earth’s gravity. The visuals of him standing tall in the recovery zone have already gone viral across Indian social media.

“India is proud. Shubhanshu has not only made history, but also inspired a whole new generation of space explorers,” said Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, who confirmed that Shukla is expected to land in India by August 17 after completing a medical quarantine and debriefing in the U.S.

A Team of Trailblazers

Alongside Shukla were:

• Commander Peggy Whitson (USA) – a space veteran and record holder

• Slawosz Uznanski (Poland) – ESA project astronaut

• Tibor Kapu (Hungary) – part of the HUNOR program

The Axiom-4 crew departed for the ISS on June 26, 2025, aboard a Falcon 9 rocket from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, Florida. During their time on the space station, the crew conducted microgravity experiments, biomedical research, and engaged in educational outreach with students across the globe, including from India.

According to ISRO sources, Shubhanshu Shukla will spend a few weeks undergoing decompression and health evaluations before returning to India. A grand welcome is expected, and sources hint that he may join India’s future Gaganyaan missions in a leadership capacity.

This mission not only signals India’s growing collaboration with global space agencies like NASA and ESA but also showcases the technical, mental, and physical excellence of Indian astronauts on the world stage.
“For India, this is more than just a safe landing — it’s a new launchpad. A mission that proves India isn’t just dreaming about space anymore. We’re living it.”
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who personally spoke to Shukla’s father, called the mission “a proud moment for every Indian,” and conveyed gratitude and admiration. BSP leader Mayawati also extended her congratulations, calling Shukla’s journey a source of inspiration for India’s youth and praising the nation’s scientific community.At the same time, Congress leader Udit Raj stirred controversy, suggesting that future missions should include candidates from underrepresented groups—a reminder of the political discourse surrounding high-profile achievements.

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