Are We Excited and Nervous? Family Awaits Safe Return of India’s First ISS Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla
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Synopsis
As India’s first astronaut prepares for his return from the ISS, his family experiences a whirlwind of emotions. With pride and anxiety, they await his safe landing, marking a significant moment in India's space exploration history. Will he return safely to the embrace of his loved ones?
Key Takeaways
- Shubhanshu Shukla is India's first ISS astronaut.
- He spent 18 days in space on the Axiom-4 mission.
- His family is experiencing a blend of joy and anxiety.
- The spacecraft is set to splash down in the Pacific Ocean.
- His reflections on India from space highlight national pride.
New Delhi, July 14 (NationPress) As Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, India's pioneering astronaut aboard the International Space Station (ISS), prepares for his return to Earth, emotions are surging in his hometown. His family, filled with joy and pride, is also filled with anxiety as they await his safe landing. The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft is scheduled to undock from the ISS on Monday at 4:30 P.M. IST.
The spacecraft is expected to splash down in the Pacific Ocean near California around 3:00 P.M. IST on Tuesday.
Group Captain Shukla has spent 18 days in space as part of the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) private spaceflight mission, representing India's expanding role in human space exploration.
Speaking ahead of his return, his sister Shuchi Mishra conveyed the emotional atmosphere at home: "We’re feeling incredibly excited and nervous, just like we did on the day of his launch. There’s a palpable sense of tension because we are in a critical phase; it’s the final stage. Only when he splashes down safely will we feel at ease."
His father, Shambhu Dayal Shukla, shared the family's heartfelt prayers: "Today is the docking and tomorrow he returns. From the depths of our hearts, we pray for the successful completion of his mission and a safe return. We seek blessings for his well-being."
His mother, Asha Shukla, expressed a blend of joy and maternal concern: "We are extremely happy; the house is filled with joy. Everyone is excited that he will soon be back. We pray for his safe return from space and the successful completion of his mission."
Earlier, during his farewell from the ISS, Group Captain Shukla reflected on his journey: "It has been an extraordinary journey. I never imagined this when I launched on Falcon 9 on the 25th; it has been incredible, made special by the people involved. The team supporting me has made our time here truly memorable."
In a poignant message during his mission, he shared his perspective of India from space: "Today's India appears ambitious from above, brave, confident, and filled with pride. Because of all these qualities, I can confidently state that today's India shines brighter than the rest of the world."
As the world looks on and India holds its breath, all eyes are now focused on the final phase of his mission: his safe return to Earth.
Point of View
It’s essential to highlight that the return of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla not only signifies a personal milestone for him and his family but also represents a monumental stride for India in the arena of space exploration. The nation rallies behind him, showcasing unity and hope, embodying the spirit of progress.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Shubhanshu Shukla?
Shubhanshu Shukla is India's first astronaut who recently completed a mission aboard the International Space Station.
What was the duration of Shubhanshu Shukla's space mission?
He spent 18 days in space as part of the Axiom-4 private spaceflight mission.
When will Shubhanshu Shukla return to Earth?
He is set to return to Earth after the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft undocks from the ISS on Monday at 4:30 P.M. IST.
How does Shukhanshu Shukla view India from space?
He described India as ambitious, brave, confident, and filled with pride while observing from space.
What are his family's feelings about his return?
His family feels a mix of excitement and nervousness as they await his safe return.
