Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, India’s astronaut, is set to return to Earth today. His return has created a wave of excitement across the country. Alongside him, other astronauts from the Axiom-4 mission are also expected to land. Their capsule is expected to reach the California coast at 3:01 PM IST.

The return follows a successful 18-day stay at the International Space Station (ISS). The team began their undocking process on Monday afternoon. After a 22.5-hour journey in space, their spacecraft is on its final descent. A specially equipped ship will retrieve the capsule from the Pacific Ocean.

India’s Union Minister Jitendra Singh is attending a live telecast of the landing at the CSIR Auditorium. On Monday, he tweeted, “Welcome Shubhanshu,” expressing pride in India’s space efforts.

Shubhanshu’s Journey from ISS

Group Captain Shukla departed the ISS along with three other astronauts. The group includes Commander Peggy Whitson from the USA, Mission Specialist Slawosz Uznanski from Poland, and Tibor Kapu from Hungary. The capsule, Dragon Grace, was undocked at 2:37 PM IST on Monday. It officially began its return at 4:35 PM IST.

The Axiom-4 mission started on June 25, 2025. It launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon-9 rocket from Florida. The spacecraft successfully docked at the ISS and completed its mission objectives.

Family Awaits in Lucknow School

Shubhanshu’s family gathered at City Montessori School in Lucknow to witness the live return. Emotions ran high as they waited for visual confirmation of his safe landing. His return marks a proud moment not only for his family but also for the nation.

This moment is especially historic as Shukla represents India in a multi-national space mission. His presence on the ISS has been widely celebrated by space enthusiasts and scientific communities.

Impact on India’s Space Future

According to Prerna Chandra, Program Manager at Nehru Planetarium, the mission is a milestone. She highlighted that astronauts from three different countries were part of this collaboration. This includes India’s Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla.

She emphasized the mission’s value to India’s space future. Shukla’s experience will contribute to future Indian space missions. Following Chandrayaan’s success, this marks another step forward for India’s global space presence.

She added, “These missions inspire children and young aspirants to pursue careers in space.” The Planetarium organized live workshops and sessions to broadcast the mission for students. They also plan to invite Shukla to interact with children and share his journey.

India’s long-term goal is to lead space missions by 2040. Several missions like Gaganyaan and Shukrayaan are already in the pipeline. These programs aim to expand India’s presence in deep space.

Nationwide Prayers for Safe Return

Mahant Ravindra Puri, President of Akhil Bhartiya Akhada Parishad, also expressed his prayers. He said, “We prayed for Shubhanshu’s safe return to Earth. The entire country is proud.”

The spiritual community joined the public in hoping for a smooth splashdown. Social media also buzzed with messages of pride and anticipation.

Highlights of the Axiom-4 Mission

• Mission Name: Axiom-4

• Spacecraft: Dragon Grace

• Launch Vehicle: SpaceX Falcon-9

• Launch Site: Florida, USA

• Crew Members:

  • Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla (India)

  • Peggy Whitson (USA, Commander)

  • Slawosz Uznanski (Poland, Mission Specialist)

  • Tibor Kapu (Hungary, Mission Specialist)

• ISS Stay Duration: 18 Days

• Return Landing: California coast, 3:01 PM IST, July 15, 2025

The capsule’s journey was monitored with precision by NASA and Axiom Space. The retrieval operation involved sea-based teams ready to receive the spacecraft safely.

Global Recognition and Scientific Impact

Shukla’s successful mission has garnered praise worldwide. His participation in this international mission shows India’s growing role in space exploration. The mission also strengthens India’s collaboration with agencies like NASA and Axiom Space.

This is a leap forward in building India’s astronaut training and deep-space capabilities. The knowledge gained from this mission will assist upcoming projects like India’s human spaceflight missions.

Educational institutions are using this achievement to promote STEM education. Schools across India are hosting discussions and activities to honor the mission.

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s return marks a proud milestone for India. It represents courage, innovation, and international cooperation in space. His safe landing will inspire the next generation of Indian astronauts and scientists.

The Axiom-4 mission serves as a bridge between India’s current capabilities and its 2040 goals. With missions like Gaganyaan and Shukrayaan on the horizon, India’s space journey has only just begun.