Has Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla Undocked from ISS to Begin His Journey Home?
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Synopsis
Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has made history by undocking from the ISS after 18 days in space. His journey symbolizes India's growing prowess in space exploration. As he returns, his family and the nation eagerly await his safe landing, celebrating a significant milestone for Indian space science.
Key Takeaways
- Shubhanshu Shukla spent 18 days on the ISS, marking a significant achievement for India.
- He conducted vital experiments that will aid future missions.
- The mission's success showcases India's growing capabilities in space science.
- His heartfelt message reflects national pride and ambition.
- Shukla's safe return is eagerly anticipated by his family and the nation.
New Delhi, July 14 (NationPress) After an impressive 18-day tenure aboard the International Space Station (ISS), Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla commenced his voyage back to Earth on Monday.
On June 26, Shukla etched his name in history by becoming the first Indian to reach the orbital lab, following in the footsteps of Rakesh Sharma, the second Indian astronaut who ventured into space in 1984.
The initial 14-day mission was successfully extended to 18 days, with Shukla boarding SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft, aptly named 'Grace', at 03:30 am CT (2 pm IST).
The hatch between the SpaceX Dragon and the ISS was securely closed at 5:07 a.m. EDT, according to a blog update from NASA.
Shukla, along with fellow astronauts Peggy Whitson (US), Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski (Poland), and Tibor Kapu (Hungary), undocked from the ISS's Harmony module at approximately 7:15 a.m. ET (4:45 pm IST).
“Dragon is GO to undock from the Space Station,” announced SpaceX via a post on X.
“Dragon separation confirmed!” the post further elaborated.
After a journey of about 22.5 hours back to Earth, the crew is projected to splash down off the Californian coast at approximately 4:31 am CT (3:01 pm IST, Tuesday), as stated by Axiom Space.
In an emotional farewell message from orbit on Sunday, Shukla reflected on his time at the ISS, calling it “an incredible journey,” and expressed gratitude to ISRO, Axiom Space, NASA, and SpaceX for their invaluable support.
“India still looks better than the whole world,” he remarked.
He went on to say, “Today’s India looks ambitious, brave, confident, and full of pride,” as noted by the IAF Group Captain.
While Shukla’s successful mission is a remarkable achievement, his family is eagerly awaiting his safe return.
“We’re feeling both excited and nervous, just like on the first day of his lift-off. There’s a sense of apprehension because this is such a crucial stage, the final one. Only when he splashes down safely will we feel relieved,” shared Shukla’s sister, Shuchi Mishra, with IANS.
Residents of Varanasi participated in a special 'yagya-havan' for Shukla’s safe return.
The ceremony was filled with devotion and national pride, featuring priests chanting Vedic mantras as sacred flames soared skyward, symbolizing the heights from which Shukla is returning.
During his time aboard, Shukla conducted seven India-specific experiments, a significant step for India's Gaganyaan human space flight mission.
These experiments focused on muscle loss, the development of a brain-computer interface, and sprouting green gram and fenugreek seeds in space, among others.
These initiatives represent a considerable advancement in space science and technology, providing essential insights to support Gaganyaan and the establishment of the Bhartiya Antariksha Station, along with future planetary missions.
Post-landing, Shukla and his fellow crew members will undergo a rehabilitation program lasting about seven days, supervised by Flight Surgeons to help them readjust to Earth's gravity.
Point of View
Shubhanshu Shukla's mission underscores India's commitment to advancing space exploration. His achievements enhance the nation's reputation on the global stage, showcasing the expertise and determination of our astronauts. As we await his return, it is vital to recognize the collaborative efforts of ISRO, Axiom Space, and other partners in making this mission a success.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the duration of Shubhanshu Shukla's ISS mission?
Shubhanshu Shukla spent a total of 18 days aboard the ISS.
Who was the first Indian astronaut to travel to space?
Rakesh Sharma was the first Indian astronaut to travel to space in 1984.
What experiments did Shubhanshu Shukla conduct in space?
He conducted seven India-specific experiments, including research on muscle loss and a brain-computer interface.
When is Shubhanshu Shukla expected to land back on Earth?
He is expected to splash down off the Californian coast at approximately 4:31 am CT.
What is the Gaganyaan mission?
Gaganyaan is India's human spaceflight mission aimed at sending Indian astronauts into space.
