Shukhanshu’s Space Mission Wasn’t Just a First—It Might Shape India’s Future in Orbit

Image Source : The Indian Express

Group Captain Shukhanshu Shukla, India’s second astronaut and the first to visit the International Space Station, is set to return to Earth on July 15 after an 18day mission aboard the Axiom4 flight. His journey marks a major milestone in India’s human spaceflight ambitions.

Mission Timeline and Return Details

Launched on June 25 via SpaceX from Kennedy Space Center
Docked with the ISS on June 26 after a 28hour journey
Scheduled to undock on July 14 and splash down off California’s coast on July 15
Will undergo a sevenday rehabilitation program to readjust to Earth’s gravity
Scientific Contributions and Experiments
Conducted seven Indianled microgravity experiments, four of which are complete

Key studies included:

Survival and reproduction of Indian tardigrades
Myogenesis: muscle cell behavior in space
Sprouting of methi and moong seeds for crew nutrition
Cyanobacteria growth for life support systems
Ongoing experiments involve microalgae, crop seed growth, and Voyager Displays
Participated in NASAled studies on cerebral blood flow, radiation exposure, and cognitive adaptability

Why It Matters

Shukla’s work supports India’s upcoming Gaganyaan mission and future planetary exploration
His experience strengthens ISRO’s astronaut training and international collaboration
The mission showcases India’s growing role in global space science and technology

Sources: Economic Times, Telegraph India, ISRO, NASA, ABP Live, Moneycontrol, MSN India, Indian Express, Hindustan Times, IBTimes India