Is Shubhanshu Shukla Returning to Earth on July 14? Axiom Space Confirms
Synopsis
Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla is set to return from the International Space Station on July 14. As the first Indian to visit the ISS since Rakesh Sharma, his mission is pivotal for India's Gaganyaan project. Get insights into his journey, experiments, and interactions with students.
Key Takeaways
Shubhanshu Shukla is set to return to Earth on July 14 .
He conducted seven experiments for India's space program.
Shukla is the first Indian to visit the ISS since 1984 .
He engaged with students through video calls, inspiring the next generation.
His mission is a significant step for India's Gaganyaan initiative.
New Delhi, July 11 (NationPress) Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, who is currently aboard the International Space Station, is anticipated to commence his journey back to Earth on July 14, as stated by Axiom Space on Friday.
Shukla, alongside three fellow crew members Peggy Whitson, Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, and Tibor Kapu, will undock from the Harmony module using the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft.
“The #Ax4 crew is set to undock from the @Space_Station no earlier than Monday, July 14, at 7:05 a.m. ET (4:35 pm IST),” Axiom Space announced through a post on the social media platform X.
A splashdown is anticipated a few hours following the undocking, close to the Californian coast in the Pacific Ocean.
“We are collaborating with the station programme, closely monitoring the Axiom-4 progress. The current target for undocking is July 14,” stated Steve Stitch, Manager of the NASA Commercial Crew Program, during a press conference.
IAF Group Captain Shukla is on a 14-day mission to the ISS. He made history as the first Indian to visit the ISS and is the second Indian astronaut overall, following Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who ventured into space in 1984.
While on the orbital platform, Shukla conducted seven experiments specifically for India, significantly contributing to India's Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission. These experiments include researching muscle loss, developing a brain-computer interface, and sprouting green gram and fenugreek seeds in space.
He also engaged with students from Kerala and Lucknow through video conferencing from the ISS. The students had about 10 minutes to ask him questions about astronaut meals, sleeping in space, and health issues.
The students were also curious about the advantages of space exploration and which aspects of his journey Shukla found most enjoyable.
During the interaction, Shukla described the launch experience of the Axiom Mission 4 as “amazing” and “dynamic.”
“It’s truly fun; in space, there is no floor and no ceiling. If you were to visit the station (ISS), you might find someone sleeping on the walls or on the ceiling,” he explained to the students.
Point of View
It's vital to recognize Shubhanshu Shukla's historic contributions to space exploration for India. His mission not only enhances our scientific understanding but also inspires future generations. The nation's support for such endeavors is crucial as we aim for greater achievements in space.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Shubhanshu Shukla return to Earth?
Shubhanshu Shukla is scheduled to begin his journey back to Earth on July 14.
What experiments did Shubhanshu conduct in space?
He conducted seven India-specific experiments, including studies on muscle loss and brain-computer interfaces.
Who are Shubhanshu's crew members?
His crew includes Peggy Whitson, Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, and Tibor Kapu.
How long is Shubhanshu's mission?
He is on a 14-day mission to the ISS.
What interaction did Shubhanshu have with students?
He interacted with students from Kerala and Lucknow, answering their questions about life in space.
