Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, after an 18-day mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), has successfully completed all seven microgravity experiments assigned by ISRO. These experiments covered diverse fields including biology and crop science, marking a significant milestone in India’s space research endeavors.
Experiments Cover Indian Strain of Tardigrades, Crop Seeds, and More
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) confirmed that the experiments on the Indian strain of tardigrades (tiny water-dwelling organisms), muscle cell development (myogenesis), sprouting of methi (fenugreek) and moong (mung bean) seeds, cyanobacteria, microalgae, crop seeds, and a Voyager Display were completed as planned during Shukla’s stay on the ISS.
First Indian in Space After Four Decades
Group Captain Shukla is the first Indian astronaut to travel to space in the last 41 years and the first to reach the ISS through a private spaceflight. ISRO entrusted him with multiple scientific research experiments proposed by Indian researchers from various national laboratories and academic institutions.
Interaction with Prime Minister and Students
During his mission, Shukla also had live interactions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and connected with Indian students through ham radio, sharing his unique space experiences and inspiring the next generation.
Axiom-4 Mission: International Scientific Collaboration
Shukla was part of the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission, which included around 60 scientific studies from 31 countries such as the US, Poland, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Nigeria, and the UAE. This international collaboration highlights the global effort toward space research and technology.
Return Journey to Earth
The Axiom-4 crew, including Shukla, undocked from the ISS on July 14, beginning their return trip aboard SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft ‘Grace’. The spacecraft is scheduled to splash down off the coast of San Diego, California, on July 15 at approximately 3:00 PM IST, completing a 22.5-hour journey from orbit back to Earth.
Highlights of the Mission
During his 18 days on the ISS, Shukla completed more than 310 orbits of Earth, covering roughly 13 million kilometers—a distance comparable to traveling 33 times between Earth and the Moon. The crew witnessed over 300 sunrises and sunsets, experiencing the dynamic environment of low Earth orbit.
Family and Nation Await the Hero’s Return
Back home in Lucknow, Shukla’s family eagerly awaits his safe return. His mother expressed pride and anticipation for his arrival, while Union Minister Jitendra Singh extended warm wishes on behalf of the nation, highlighting the importance of this historic mission for India’s growing space ambitions.
Shukla’s mission is seen as a symbolic and scientific milestone ahead of ISRO’s ambitious Gaganyaan mission, signifying India’s expanding role in international space exploration and research.
