In a landmark moment for India’s space ambitions, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla safely returned to Earth after completing an 18-day stay at the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the commercial Axiom-4 mission.
His journey concluded with a 22.5-hour ride aboard SpaceX’s Dragon ‘Grace’ capsule, which splashed down off the coast of San Diego on Tuesday.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Shukla’s return with heartfelt words on social media, calling it “another milestone towards our own Human Space Flight Mission—Gaganyaan.” Shukla is now the first Indian astronaut to visit the ISS and only the second Indian to venture into space, following Rakesh Sharma’s historic 1984 flight.
I join the nation in welcoming Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla as he returns to Earth from his historic mission to Space. As India’s first astronaut to have visited International Space Station, he has inspired a billion dreams through his dedication, courage and pioneering…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 15, 2025
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) reportedly invested Rs 550 crore in the mission, underscoring its value for advancing India’s capabilities in manned spaceflight. The insights from Shukla’s experience are expected to shape technical planning for the Gaganyaan mission, slated for launch in 2027.
Union ministers Rajnath Singh and Jitendra Singh also extended their congratulations. “He has lifted India’s aspirations to new heights,” said Singh. Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasised the scientific contributions made during the mission, highlighting groundbreaking microgravity experiments.
Congratulations Team #Axiom4!
A moment of pride for the world as “Dragon” successfully splashes down, off the California coast near San Diago.
A moment of glory for India as one of her illustrious sons returns from a successful voyage… having conducted for the posterity,… pic.twitter.com/vZHzykeTQr
— Dr Jitendra Singh (@DrJitendraSingh) July 15, 2025
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh posted, “Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s successful return from the historic Axiom-4 mission is a proud moment for every Indian. He has not just touched space, he has lifted India’s aspirations to new heights”.
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s successful return from the historic Axiom-4 mission is a proud moment for every Indian. He has not just touched space, he has lifted India’s aspirations to new heights.
His journey to the International Space Station and back is not just a…
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) July 15, 2025
As Shukla’s achievement resonates nationwide, it signals not only India’s growing prowess in space exploration but also a deeper integration with global space initiatives, bringing Gaganyaan one giant leap closer to reality.
