The crew of the Axiom-4 mission will return to Earth from the International Space Station (ISS) today, marking the end of a significant spaceflight. The spacecraft, part of Axiom Space’s latest mission, is scheduled to undock from the ISS at 4:30 PM. The crew, including Indian astronaut Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla, will conclude their 17-day mission with this return.
In his farewell message, Subhanshu described the journey to space as incredible and awe-inspiring. He also remarked that India’s journey in space exploration is just beginning. NASA has announced that the undocking and departure from the ISS will be broadcast live.
The Axiom-4 mission comprised four astronauts: Indian Air Force Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla, NASA veteran Peggy Whitson, Poland’s SIawosz Wisniewski, and Hungary’s Tibor Kapu. With the successful completion of the mission, Subhanshu has become the first Indian astronaut to reach the International Space Station. The crew engaged in a series of scientific experiments and research activities during their stay aboard the station.
The mission faced seven postponements due to technical issues before its eventual launch. During the mission, Subhanshu conducted seven dedicated experiments on behalf of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). His participation in the mission is expected to greatly bolster India’s upcoming human spaceflight programme, Gaganyaan. Subhanshu is one of the four astronauts selected for the Gaganyaan mission, which aims to send Indian astronauts into space. The Government of India has reportedly spent around ₹548 crore on this mission, covering Subhanshu’s training and launch, along with the training of his backup, Group Captain Prashant Nair, who is also part of the Gaganyaan team. Subhanshu received specialised training from both SpaceX and Axiom Space.
Earlier during the mission, Subhanshu had a video interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the conversation, he shared that from space, the Earth appears unified, the sky has no borders, and that dreams are truly achievable. The Prime Minister congratulated Subhanshu for once again flying the Indian flag in space.
This mission held special significance for India, as Subhanshu is among the elite group of astronauts selected for ISRO’s Gaganyaan mission. His journey to the space station was eagerly followed and celebrated across the country.
