India's Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla Prepares To Return Home, ISS Undocking Today

Last Updated:July 14, 2025, 08:41 IST

The crew will return aboard SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft, with splashdown expected off the California coast on July 15 at around 3:00 pm IST

Shubhanshu Shukla at International Space Station (Image: Axiom Space)

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, India’s first astronaut to visit the International Space Station (ISS), is set to undock from the orbiting lab today at 4:30 pm IST.

Shubhanshu Shukla participated in the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission along with three international crew members: Commander Peggy Whitson, and Mission Specialists Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski and Tibor Kapu.

The crew will return aboard SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft, with splashdown expected off the California coast on July 15 at around 3:00 pm IST.

Shukla’s return marks the end of a landmark mission that highlighted India’s growing role in international space collaboration and scientific research.

During their 18-day stay on the ISS, the Ax-4 crew conducted over 60 scientific experiments across biology, AI, materials science, and human health.

Among Shukla’s key contributions was the Sprouts Project, which examined how microgravity influences seed germination and early plant growth — research aimed at supporting future space agriculture.

He also led experiments on microalgae, assessing their ability to generate food, oxygen, and biofuels in space.

Additionally, the crew tested glucose monitoring devices in microgravity to support future astronauts with diverse health needs. Other experiments included studies on mental health and evaluating next-generation spacesuit materials.

Shukla had a video interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a phone call with ISRO Chairman V Narayanan during the mission, discussing scientific progress and the upcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight project.

At a farewell ceremony aboard the ISS on July 13, Shukla thanked ISRO, his crewmates, and the people of India. “This mission is not just a personal milestone, but a proof to what humanity can achieve together. I hope our work inspires young minds in India and across the world to dream beyond boundaries," he said.

Reflecting on India’s space journey, Shukla added, “Today, India looks ambitious from space, fearless, confident, and proud. India is still saare jahan se accha."

Following undocking, the crew will spend approximately 21 hours travelling back to Earth.

After splashdown, Shukla will undergo a week-long rehabilitation program to help his body adjust to gravity. His family is preparing a warm welcome as he returns home after making history.

The Ax-4 mission is seen as a key step in India’s preparations for the Gaganyaan mission and the country’s broader ambitions in human spaceflight.

Ronit Singh

Ronit Singh, Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com, works with the India and Breaking News team. He has a keen focus on Indian politics and aims to cover unexplored angles. Ronit is an alumnus of Christ (Deemed to be...Read More

Ronit Singh, Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com, works with the India and Breaking News team. He has a keen focus on Indian politics and aims to cover unexplored angles. Ronit is an alumnus of Christ (Deemed to be...

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