How did Shubhanshu Shukla's family react to his return from space?
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Synopsis
The emotional return of IAF Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla from the ISS has touched hearts across India. His family's overwhelming joy and pride highlight the significance of this historic mission.
Key Takeaways
- Shubhanshu Shukla returned after an 18-day mission.
- He splashed down in the Pacific Ocean.
- His family expressed immense joy and pride.
- He is the second Indian astronaut to travel to space.
- The mission reinforces India's commitment to space exploration.
New Delhi, July 15 (NationPress) Indian astronaut and IAF Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla made his triumphant return to Earth on Tuesday after an extraordinary journey aboard the International Space Station (ISS). His family, located in Lucknow, was filled with a whirlwind of emotions—excitement, anxiety, and immense pride—as they celebrated his safe return.
Shukla, marking a significant milestone as the first Indian astronaut in over four decades to visit the ISS, successfully splashed down in the Pacific Ocean near the California coast at 3:00 PM IST, concluding the historic Axiom Space’s Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission.
After the successful landing, his family expressed their heartfelt joy.
His mother, Asha Shukla, shared with IANS, “The excitement is evident on our faces. We are profoundly overwhelmed, knowing that our son has returned to Earth. We are grateful for everyone’s support. Seeing him back after so many days brings us endless joy—we are incredibly proud.”
His sister, Shuchi Mishra, added, “Honestly, I couldn't sleep last night; the excitement was overwhelming. I have butterflies in my stomach right now. Thank you to everyone who supported us. We have awaited this moment—he is finally home, and our happiness knows no bounds.”
His father, Shambhu Dayal Shukla, also expressed gratitude for the successful mission. “I thank God for bringing him back. I appreciate everyone’s blessings for our son. He has returned from a place where the risks were significant,” he stated.
The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft named “Grace”, carrying IAF Group Captain Shukla and three other astronauts from the Axiom Space Mission-4 (Ax-4), splashed down in the Pacific Ocean off the California coast at 3:01 PM IST (4:31 AM CT).
“Splashdown of Dragon confirmed – welcome back to Earth, AstroPeggy, Shux, astro_slawosz, and Tibi!” SpaceX announced via social media.
Shukla, along with fellow astronauts Peggy Whitson (USA), Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski (Poland), and Tibor Kapu (Hungary), boarded SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft “Grace” at 3:30 AM CT (2 PM IST) on Monday. He flew to the ISS on June 26, becoming the second Indian astronaut to venture into space, following Rakesh Sharma's journey in 1984.
Shukla, recognized as India’s first astronaut to live and work aboard the Space Station, returned after an 18-day mission at the orbiting laboratory, concluding the historic Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission.
Point of View
I believe that Shubhanshu Shukla's return from space symbolizes not only personal achievement but also national pride. His journey inspires countless Indians, reinforcing our commitment to advancing in space exploration.
NationPress
16/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the duration of Shubhanshu Shukla's mission?
Shubhanshu Shukla's mission lasted 18 days aboard the International Space Station.
Where did Shukhla's spacecraft land?
His spacecraft, SpaceX's Dragon 'Grace', splashed down in the Pacific Ocean near California.
Who were Shukhla's fellow astronauts?
Shubhanshu Shukla was accompanied by Peggy Whitson, Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski, and Tibor Kapu.
Is Shubhanshu Shukla the first Indian astronaut?
No, he is the second Indian astronaut to travel to space, following Rakesh Sharma.
What was the significance of this mission?
This mission marked the first time an Indian astronaut returned to the ISS in over four decades, showcasing India's advancements in space exploration.
