Is Shubhanshu Shukla Returning to India This Weekend?
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Synopsis
The anticipation is palpable as IAF Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla prepares to return from his historic mission to the ISS. With his family eagerly awaiting his arrival, this moment marks a significant milestone for India's space ambitions. Discover the excitement surrounding his homecoming and the future of India's space exploration.
Key Takeaways
- Shubhanshu Shukla made history as the first Indian to reach the ISS.
- He completed an 18-day mission filled with experiments.
- His return marks a significant step for India's Gaganyaan program.
- His family eagerly awaits his arrival in Delhi.
- Prime Minister Modi highlights the mission's importance for India's future in space.
New Delhi, Aug 15 (NationPress) As IAF Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla prepares for his return to India this weekend, his family expressed their excitement on Friday. In June, Shukla made history by becoming the first Indian to reach the International Space Station (ISS). After an 18-day mission filled with numerous experiments, led by ISRO, he returned on July 15 and has been undergoing rehabilitation in the United States since then.
"I am thrilled. My son has successfully completed his mission and is coming back to us. We can't wait to meet him as soon as possible. He'll be arriving the day after tomorrow, and we plan to greet him in Delhi," said Shukla’s father, Shambhu Dayal Shukla, in an interview with IANS.
On Thursday, Union Minister Jitendra Singh confirmed Shukla’s return, stating that the IAF Group Captain will first meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi before heading home to Lucknow to reunite with his family.
Following this, he is expected to return to the capital for the National Space Day celebrations on August 23.
"I am overjoyed that my son is returning to India. We have been waiting for a month, and the moment is finally here. I can hardly contain my happiness, but we are also eager for him to be home," shared Asha Shukla, the astronaut's mother, with IANS.
Shukla participated in the Axiom-4 private space mission, marking a significant achievement for India's human spaceflight program, Gaganyaan, which aims for a launch by 2027.
In his Independence Day address earlier on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the mission, highlighting that Shukla has ignited a billion aspirations and contributed significantly to advancing India's space objectives.
"IAF Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is back from the ISS. His return to India is imminent. We are committed to becoming self-sufficient in the space domain, preparing for the launch of Gaganyaan, our flagship human spaceflight initiative. We are also working towards establishing our own space station," the Prime Minister stated.
Point of View
Shubhanshu Shukla's return is a moment of pride for India, showcasing our advancements in space technology and human spaceflight capabilities. His achievements not only inspire future generations but also solidify our nation's position in the global space race.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Shubhanshu Shukla?
Shubhanshu Shukla is an IAF Group Captain who became the first Indian to reach the International Space Station during the Axiom-4 private space mission.
What was the duration of Shukla's mission?
Shubhanshu Shukla's mission to the ISS lasted for 18 days.
When is Shukla expected to return to India?
IAF Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is expected to return to India this weekend.
What impact does Shukla's mission have on India's space program?
Shukla's journey represents a significant milestone for India's Gaganyaan mission, which aims to launch its first crewed spaceflight by 2027.
What did Prime Minister Modi say about Shukla's mission?
Prime Minister Modi praised Shubhanshu Shukla's mission, stating that he has inspired a billion dreams and emphasized India's commitment to becoming self-reliant in the space sector.
