Subhanshu Shukla Returns After 17-Day ISS Mission

Indian Astronaut Subhanshu Shukla Returns from Historic 17-Day Axiom-4 Space Mission

California, July 15 – Indian astronaut Subhanshu Shukla has successfully returned to Earth after spending 17 days aboard the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4). The spacecraft made a safe splashdown near the California coast at approximately 3 PM IST today, marking the conclusion of this significant private spaceflight.

The Ax-4 crew, consisting of four astronauts, had undocked from the ISS’s Harmony module on July 14 at 4:45 PM IST, beginning their journey back to Earth. During re-entry, the Dragon spacecraft experienced extreme temperatures of up to 2,500°C before safely descending through the Earth’s atmosphere.

Shukla and his team had launched aboard the Axiom spacecraft on June 25 and arrived at the ISS on June 26 at 4:01 PM IST. The mission returned with over 233 kilograms of cargo, including critical scientific data and hardware from NASA and other research partners.

Key Highlights of Subhanshu Shukla’s Mission:

• Participated in over 25 scientific experiments, many in collaboration with Indian institutions.

• Conducted agriculture-related studies in microgravity, including experiments with methi (fenugreek) and moong (green gram) seeds.

• Took part in bone health research and microalgae studies in space.

• Engaged in a live video conference with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi from space on June 28, stating, “India looks magnificent from space.”

This mission is part of a private spaceflight initiative by Axiom Space, in collaboration with NASA and SpaceX. India reportedly paid ₹548 crore for a seat on this prestigious mission, positioning Shukla as one of the few Indians to have lived aboard the ISS.

Subhanshu’s journey marks a new era for India’s presence in space, combining public and private sector collaboration for scientific advancement and global recognition.