Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has made history as the first Indian to walk on the International Space Station (ISS). His return journey is now underway, with the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission undocking from the ISS and expected to splash down within 24 hours. The 41-year gap since Rakesh Sharma’s ascent into space in 1984 adds significance to Shukla's achievement.
The crew, which includes Shukla, a NASA veteran, and international astronauts, experienced life in orbit, conducting 60 scientific experiments, including seven designed by India’s ISRO. Axiom Space live-streamed the mission, showcasing the undocking, set for a splashdown near California.
In a heartfelt farewell from the ISS, Shukla emphasized India's bold foray into space, proclaiming, “India looks ambitious and confident from space.” With plans for the Gaganyaan mission launching in 2027 and visions of a space station and lunar mission soon after, Shukla’s journey is just the beginning for India's aspirations in space exploration. Before leaving, he acknowledged the hopes of a billion Indians, carrying them along on this transformative mission.
The crew, which includes Shukla, a NASA veteran, and international astronauts, experienced life in orbit, conducting 60 scientific experiments, including seven designed by India’s ISRO. Axiom Space live-streamed the mission, showcasing the undocking, set for a splashdown near California.
In a heartfelt farewell from the ISS, Shukla emphasized India's bold foray into space, proclaiming, “India looks ambitious and confident from space.” With plans for the Gaganyaan mission launching in 2027 and visions of a space station and lunar mission soon after, Shukla’s journey is just the beginning for India's aspirations in space exploration. Before leaving, he acknowledged the hopes of a billion Indians, carrying them along on this transformative mission.
