Shubhanshu Shukla Return Journey: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, India’s space hero, is returning to Earth on July 14, 2025, after completing an 18-day mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). This historic journey marks a major leap for India’s space ambitions and highlights the nation’s growing role in global space exploration.
India’s Proud Moment in Space History ‘Shubhanshu Shukla Return Journey’
Shubhanshu Shukla has become the first Indian astronaut to visit the ISS, making it a monumental event in Indian space history. This is also the first time in over 40 years that an Indian has traveled to space, following in the footsteps of Rakesh Sharma, who went into space in 1984.
In his emotional farewell message from space on Sunday, July 13, 2025, Shukla shared his powerful vision of modern India. Looking down on Earth from space, he said:
“Today’s India from space looks ambitious, fearless, confident, and full of pride. Aaj ka Bharat abhi bhi saare jahan se achha dikhta hai.”
His words reflect not only his pride as an Indian but also the country’s growing self-belief and strength in the field of science and technology.
Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4): A Journey of Science and Cooperation
Shukla’s journey was part of the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), a private international mission to the ISS. As the pilot of the mission, Shukla spent over two weeks aboard the station, where he took part in cutting-edge experiments and inspiring outreach programs.
Key Contributions of Shubhanshu Shukla on ISS:
Microgravity Research: Shukla conducted experiments suggested by Indian research labs and universities, especially focusing on skeletal muscle degradation in space. These findings could improve health outcomes for astronauts and people on Earth alike.
Global Collaboration: The Ax-4 mission involved about 60 scientific studies from 31 countries, showing the power of international cooperation in space research.
Inspiring Young Minds: Through live interactions with students and a call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shukla connected India’s youth with the wonders of space, encouraging the next generation of scientists and engineers.
Returning to Earth: A Smooth SpaceX Dragon Splashdown
Group Captain Shukla, along with three fellow astronauts from the Ax-4 team, will begin his return journey aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. The undocking from the ISS’s Harmony module is set for 4:35 p.m. IST (7:05 a.m. ET) on July 14, 2025.
What Happens During the Return?
The Dragon capsule will travel for approximately 22.5 hours, performing precise orbital maneuvers.
It will re-enter Earth’s atmosphere and land safely in the Pacific Ocean near the California coast at around 3:00 p.m. IST on July 15, 2025.
After the splashdown, Shukla will undergo a rehabilitation program under expert medical supervision to adjust back to Earth’s gravity.
India’s Human Spaceflight Future: Gaganyaan and Beyond
Reflecting on his incredible journey, Shukla remarked:
“My journey [to the ISS] is going to get over. But your and my journey is still on — the journey of our human space mission is a long and also difficult one. But I can assure that if we are determined, even stars are attainable.”
These words align perfectly with India’s bold steps toward future space missions. The upcoming Gaganyaan mission, led by ISRO, aims to send Indian astronauts to low Earth orbit using indigenous technology. Shukla’s experience and insights will prove invaluable in preparing for this ambitious program.
National Pride and Scientific Progress
Shubhanshu Shukla’s successful space mission is not just about science — it’s also about national pride, unity, and inspiration. His achievements demonstrate India’s capability to contribute meaningfully to global space missions and lead in human spaceflight programs.
This mission will:
Advance scientific knowledge in microgravity.
Strengthen international space cooperation.
Inspire students and researchers across India.
Support India’s vision of becoming a major player in space exploration.
Conclusion: A New Chapter in India’s Space Story
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s return from the ISS is more than just the end of a mission — it is the beginning of a new era for Indian space science. His courage, commitment, and collaboration symbolize what’s possible when nations work together for a brighter future.
As India now prepares for more complex missions like Gaganyaan, Shukla’s legacy will continue to inspire millions and serve as a shining example of what India can achieve on the global stage.
