Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has returned safely to Earth after completing an 18-day space mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). He landed with three other astronauts on the Axiom-4 mission in the SpaceX Dragon ‘Grace’ spacecraft, which splashed down near San Diego, California, at 3.01 pm IST on July 15, 2025.

The spacecraft had undocked from the ISS earlier on July 14 at 4.35 pm IST, beginning its return to Earth. Around 30 minutes before landing, the Dragon spacecraft began its de-orbit burn to re-enter Earth’s atmosphere. This de-orbit burn lasted just under 18 minutes, during which the spacecraft lost its signal for seven minutes, as expected during reentry.

Shubhanshu’s space journey has become a proud moment for India, as he is the first Indian in 41 years to travel to space. His mission is also seen as an important step toward India’s upcoming Gaganyaan mission, which aims to send Indian astronauts into space.

A mission full of science, learning, and pride

During his stay at the ISS, Shubhanshu Shukla performed many scientific experiments. One key experiment involved studying space microalgae, especially cyanobacteria, to see how they grow and behave in microgravity. This research is important to learn whether these microorganisms can help in producing food, oxygen, and biofuels during long space missions in the future.

He conducted centrifugation tests on two strains of cyanobacteria to compare their growth and activity in space. The aim was to see how the lack of gravity changes their cellular behaviour and biochemical performance.

Shukla also did fun and educational experiments. In one, he showed how water behaves in space by using surface tension to create a floating water bubble. Laughing, he said, “I’ve become a water bender here in the station.” This experiment was part of Axiom Space’s outreach program to help people understand space better.

Before leaving the ISS, Shukla gave a farewell speech that deeply touched hearts across India. He said, “41 years ago, an Indian came to space, and he told us how India looks from up above. Today’s India looks ambitious from space, today’s India looks fearless, today’s India looks confident, today’s India looks full of pride… today’s India still looks ‘saare jahan se acha.’” He added, “Our journey ahead into space exploration may be long and arduous, but it has begun.”

Family celebrates with pride in Lucknow

Back home in Lucknow, Shukla’s family was filled with both pride and nervous excitement as they waited for his safe return. They shared how happy they were to see him showing views of Earth from space and how proud they felt to be part of this historical moment.

“This has been an unforgettable experience for him (Subhanshu Shukla). He carried out multiple experiments aboard the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station. After experiencing space and microgravity, he conducted several scientific tests. This mission has been a major learning opportunity for us. ISRO took up this mission to gather experience that will help us in our Gaganyaan program,” said Nilesh M. Desai, Director of Space Applications Centre, ISRO.

The Axiom-4 crew included mission commander Peggy Whitson and mission specialists Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski from Poland and Tibor Kapu from Hungary. Together, they completed a successful mission, and their safe return marks another step forward in international space cooperation.

With Shukla’s return, India now takes a stronger step towards its dream of becoming a leading space power. His mission may be over, but the inspiration he has left behind will fuel the hopes of future Indian astronauts for years to come.

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