In a momentous return earlier this week, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, India’s second astronaut in space—and notably the first to conduct experiments aboard the International Space Station (ISS)—landed back on Indian soil to a hero’s welcome.
A Grand Welcome to the Nation’s 'Gaganyatri'
Shukla's aircraft touched down in Delhi in the early hours of Sunday, August 17, 2025. He was greeted by Union Minister Jitendra Singh, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, and ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan. The airport scene was vibrant, with crowds waving the tricolour and rhythmic drumbeats welcoming a triumphant return.
Historic Mission & Scientific Milestones
Capt. Shukla served as the mission pilot on the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) spaceflight—a private collaboration between ISRO, NASA, Axiom Space, and SpaceX. Launching from Kennedy Space Centre on June 25, 2025, the mission docked with the ISS on June 26. Shukla spent approximately 18 days aboard, executing over 60 experiments—seven of which were developed by Indian institutions—touching on microgravity effects such as muscle atrophy, microbial adaptation, crop resilience, and cognitive studies.
Nationwide Recognition & Political Tribute
In light of his achievement, Parliament is dedicating a special discussion today (Monday, August 18) to honor Shukla's contribution and underscore India's aspirations in space exploration, including the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047. This debate will also serve to spotlight the human spaceflight trajectory, notably the upcoming Gaganyaan mission and the future Indian space station.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to meet Shukla this evening at his official residence. Subsequently, Shukla will participate in National Space Day events on August 22–23—further engaging with India’s scientific and youth communities.
Emotional Reflections & Personal Touch
Taking to social media platforms, Shukla shared his heartfelt reflections: “I guess this is what life is—everything all at once,” expressing a blend of nostalgia for his ISS comrades and excitement at reuniting with loved ones at home. A truly human moment amidst extraordinary accomplishment.
What This Means for India’s Space Journey
Shukla’s mission stands as a watershed moment in India’s space odyssey. As the first Indian to walk aboard the ISS, his scientific contributions and firsthand experience in managing complex space operations are invaluable for training future astronauts and formulating protocols for upcoming indigenous missions like Gaganyaan (expected in 2027) as well as the Indian Space Station envisioned for 2047.
Moreover, his achievements—notably witnessed and lauded by the President and Prime Minister—signal a renewed national commitment to space-led innovation and inspiration for millions of young Indians dreaming beyond Earth.
Summary Table
| Element |
Details |
| Mission |
Axiom-4 (Ax-4), ISS journey; 18 days in orbit |
| Achievements |
60+ scientific experiments, outreach sessions |
| Reception |
Hero’s welcome in Delhi; political accolades |
| Next Steps |
PM meeting tonight; National Space Day events; Parliament discussion |
Summary
Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, India’s second person in space and the first to conduct experiments aboard the ISS, returned home on August 17, 2025, to a hero’s welcome in Delhi. He spent 18 days in orbit during the Axiom-4 mission, carrying out over 60 experiments, including several from Indian institutions. Parliament is holding a special discussion to honor him, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will meet him today. Shukla’s mission is seen as a key milestone for India’s upcoming Gaganyaan program and long-term space ambitions.
