Shubhanshu Shukla’s Space Journey Inspires a Billion Dreams: PM Modi Hails Mission as a Major Milestone for Gaganyaan
New Delhi/Hyderabad, July 15 (Maxim News): Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has safely returned to Earth after completing an 18-day mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), marking a historic moment for India’s space ambitions. The mission, launched on June 25 as part of the Axiom-4 private spaceflight, included three other international crew members — Peggy Whitson, Slawosz Dijnans, and Tibor Kapu.
After spending over two weeks conducting scientific research and technology demonstrations in microgravity, the crew undocked from the ISS and returned to Earth, landing successfully in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California on July 15, after a 22-hour journey.
In a congratulatory message on social media platform X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Shukla’s achievement, calling it a “moment of national pride” and a significant milestone for India’s Gaganyaan mission. “Shubhanshu’s journey is an inspiration to the dreams of crores of Indians. His successful mission brings India one step closer to human spaceflight under the Gaganyaan programme,” PM Modi wrote.
Shukla, a serving officer of the Indian Air Force, became the first Indian astronaut to travel to the ISS. His mission, under the collaboration between NASA, Axiom Space, SpaceX, and supported by ISRO, symbolizes growing global trust in India’s capabilities in the space sector.
Upon their return, scientists at both NASA and ISRO celebrated the crew’s safe landing, exchanging sweets and congratulations. Shukla’s family, overwhelmed with emotion, expressed their pride and gratitude for the support shown by the nation.
The mission not only showcased India’s growing stature in space exploration but also set the stage for Gaganyaan, India’s first manned space mission scheduled in the coming years. Experts say the learnings from Shukla’s mission will directly contribute to astronaut training, life-support systems, and international cooperation for Gaganyaan.
Shukla also thanked ISRO, Axiom, NASA, and the Indian public for their support during the mission. His space journey has now become a symbol of aspiration and scientific excellence for India’s youth.
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