India's Shubhanshu Shukla to return home, undock from Space Station today

India Today

6 days ago

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, India's first astronaut to visit the International Space Station (ISS), is set to undock from the orbiting laboratory on Monday at 4:30 pm IST, concluding a landmark mission that has propelled Indian space science to new heights.The Axiom-4 (Ax-4) crew, including Shukla and three international colleagues, will begin their return journey aboard SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft, with splashdown scheduled off the California coast on July 15 at approximately 3:00 pm IST.advertisementDuring their 18-day stay, Shukla and the Ax-4 crew completed over 60 advanced scientific experiments spanning biology, artificial intelligence, materials science, and human health.
Among Shukla's key contributions was the Sprouts Project, which investigated how microgravity affects seed germination and early plant development. Seeds grown on the ISS will be cultivated on Earth over several generations to study changes in genetics, microbial ecosystems, and nutritional profiles—research with implications for future space agriculture.Shukla also led experiments with microalgae, exploring their potential to produce food, oxygen, and biofuels in space, critical for supporting long-duration missions. Another notable activity was testing glucose monitors in microgravity, contributing to efforts to make spaceflight safer and more inclusive for astronauts with diverse health needs.The Ax-4 team's outreach included studies on mental well-being and the performance of new spacesuit materials under space conditions.
Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has been in space for 18 days. (Photo: Axiom)
He also had a video interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a telephonic conversation with the Indian Space research Organisation (Isro) chief V Narayanan. He discussed the progress and the plans for the Gaganyaan Mission.At the farewell ceremony held on July 13, Shukla delivered a heartfelt message, expressing gratitude to ISRO, his international crewmates, and the people of India for their unwavering support. He emphasized the importance of scientific collaboration and the spirit of exploration, stating:'This mission is not just a personal milestone, but a proof to what humanity can achieve together. I hope our work inspires young minds in India and across the world to dream beyond boundaries.'Shukla's return marks a pivotal moment for India's space ambitions. In a poignant message, reminising India's first astronaut Rakesh Sharma, Shux said, "Today, India looks ambitious from space, fearless, confident, and proud. India is still saare jahan se accha."After undocking, the four-member crew has a 21-hour-long journey to return home.Upon splashdown, he will undergo a seven-day rehabilitation program to readjust to Earth's gravity. His family, eagerly awaiting his arrival, is preparing a grand welcome, proud of his achievements and the inspiration he brings to the nation.With the Ax-4 mission, astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has not only made history but also laid the groundwork for India's future in human spaceflight and scientific innovation.- EndsTune InMust Watch