New Delhi: In a landmark achievement for India’s growing space ambitions, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla safely returned to Earth on Tuesday as part of the four-member Axiom-4 crew. His return was lauded by Union Minister of Science & Technology and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh, who declared the moment “a glory for India and pride for the world,” signifying India’s rising stature in the global space ecosystem.
Speaking at Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi, after witnessing the live splashdown, Dr. Singh said, “One of Mother India’s illustrious sons is back. India has found a lasting space in the world of space.”
A Successful Return Aboard SpaceX Dragon
The SpaceX Dragon capsule Grace, carrying the Axiom-4 crew, splashed down safely in the Pacific Ocean near San Diego shortly after 3 PM IST on Tuesday. The spacecraft had undocked from the International Space Station (ISS) at 4:45 PM IST on Monday and completed a 22.5-hour descent.
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla spent 18 days aboard the ISS conducting research and collaborative experiments, alongside mission commander Peggy Whitson (USA), Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski (Poland), and Tibor Kapu (Hungary).
Global Scientific Collaboration and India’s Space Diplomacy
Describing Shukla as a “Vishwa Bandhu” (global citizen), Dr. Singh emphasized the spirit of international cooperation underpinning the mission. He drew attention to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, saying the mission is a testimony to India’s trusted role in the global scientific community.
“This is not just a scientific mission; it is a reflection of India’s role as a committed global partner in the shared journey of humanity,” said Dr. Singh.
Medical Recovery and Debriefing Phase Begins
Post-landing, all four astronauts will remain in quarantine until July 23 to undergo health evaluations and post-mission re-adaptation. Following this, debriefing sessions with Axiom Space, NASA, and ISRO will commence.
Dr. Singh noted that Group Captain Shukla is expected to return to India around August 17, where he will participate in discussions with Indian space officials, further solidifying the bridge between global and national space efforts.
A Prelude to Gaganyaan and Beyond
Shukla’s involvement in Axiom-4 marks a significant milestone ahead of India’s upcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission. Dr. Singh highlighted that the successful participation further enhances India’s credentials in global space missions.
“These are experiments that have never been done before. This marks a new era for India’s scientific and technological ambitions,” he said, adding that the mission would have long-term implications for humankind.
Inspiration for a New Generation
Dr. Singh concluded by emphasizing that Prime Minister Modi’s call to “look to the skies and dream big” is being realized. “This successful mission is just the beginning. It will inspire a new generation of Indians to pursue careers in science and space,” he said.
source: PIB
For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.
