Axiom-4 mission: Shubhanshu Shukla expected to return on July 14; Nasa confirms splashdown date

NEW DELHI: Indian-origin astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla , who travelled to space as part of the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), is expected to return to Earth on July 14, according to Nasa officials.

Shukla, a Group Captain in the Indian Air Force and trained by Isro , made history by becoming the first Indian to reach the International Space Station (ISS) on a private space mission. He was launched into space aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft, carried by a Falcon 9 rocket from Kennedy Space Center last month.

The Ax-4 crew includes experienced astronauts like Peggy Whitson, Slawosz Uznanski-Wiśniewski, and Tibor Kapu. Together, they have been working on over 60 science and technology experiments during their time aboard the ISS. These include studies in biology, artificial intelligence, and materials science.

Shukla played a key role in India-led space farming projects, such as germinating moong and methi seeds, and cultivating microalgae. These experiments are aimed at improving space life-support systems and preparing for future missions like Gaganyaan.

Last week, Shukla spoke with ISRO Chairman V Narayanan, thanking him and the space agency for their support. He also chatted with Indian schoolchildren using ham radio, sharing his experiences and inspiring the next generation of scientists and explorers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla for his achievements aboard the Axiom-4 mission. He said Shukla’s journey to the International Space Station had made every Indian proud. Modi highlighted Shukla’s role in space farming experiments, calling them a major step for India’s future space missions. The PM also appreciated Shukla’s message to Indian students, saying it would inspire the country’s next generation of scientists and explorers.