Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has made history by becoming the first Indian to reach the International Space Station (ISS). As he entered the ISS this evening, he remarked that the tricolour on his shoulder made him feel as though every citizen of India was with him on this journey.
Mission Details and Crew Members
Shubhanshu is part of the Axiom-4 mission led by veteran astronaut Peggy Whitson. The mission includes Slawosz Uznanski from Poland and Tibor Kapu from Hungary. The team entered the ISS approximately 28 hours after launch, marking a significant milestone for all participating nations.
Two Weeks of Scientific Experiments
During their 14-day stay aboard the ISS, the crew will conduct nearly 60 scientific experiments. These include studies on human physiological changes in space, advancements in space technology, and Earth observation. Shubhanshu’s contribution will play a key role in expanding India’s space research footprint.
India Celebrates the Return to Space
Back in India, celebrations erupted as the Falcon 9 rocket that launched the Axiom-4 mission successfully returned after deploying the crew to space. This moment is especially significant as it comes 41 years after Rakesh Sharma became the first Indian in space. Shubhanshu Shukla is now the second Indian to achieve this feat, renewing national pride in India’s space capabilities.
A Ride to Remember
Shortly after entering Earth’s orbit, Shubhanshu expressed his excitement by calling the experience a “kamal ki ride” (what an amazing ride), highlighting both the thrill and emotion of the journey. His reaction resonated with space enthusiasts across the country.
A Step Toward India’s Gaganyaan Mission
Shubhanshu’s journey is being seen as a strong stepping stone toward India’s upcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission. It symbolizes the country’s growing ambition and capability in human space exploration. Shubhanshu himself hopes his mission will inspire the youth of India to dream big and aim for the stars.
A Cultural Exchange in Space
As part of cultural exchange, each astronaut has brought food from their home country to share aboard the ISS. Shubhanshu has carried rice, curry, and mango pulp to share with his fellow astronauts, while the Polish and Hungarian astronauts brought specialties from their respective nations. This gesture adds a warm, human element to the scientific mission.
A Live Conversation with the Prime Minister
During the mission, Shubhanshu is also expected to have a live conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi from the ISS, highlighting the importance of this journey in India’s space diplomacy and scientific advancement.
This historic mission is not just a personal achievement for Shubhanshu Shukla but a proud milestone for India as it continues to make bold strides in space exploration.
