Shukla’s Historic Docking at the ISS
On June 26, 2025, SpaceX’s Crew Dragon “Grace” successfully docked with the International Space Station, carrying the Ax‑4 crew led by Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla as a mission pilot.
This makes him the second Indian astronaut ever (after Rakesh Sharma in 1984) and the first to reach the ISS.
A Proud Moment for India
Uttar Pradesh’s CM, Yogi Adityanath, hailed the event as a “proud moment,” underscoring India’s leap in international space collaboration.
Scientific Agenda Onboard
Shukla and crew will spend 14 days aboard the ISS, conducting ~60 experiments, with Shukla leading 7, including studies on microgravity’s impact on human physiology and algae as sustainable space food.
He described feeling “lightheaded but excited” and emphasized pride in wearing the tricolor on his sleeve”
Words from Space
From the station, Shukla sent a message:
“Namaskar, my dear countrymen…We are back in space after 41 years…revolving around Earth at 7.5 km/s…Together, let’s initiate India’s Human Space Programme. Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!”
He reflected on the launch:
“What a ride—it was magical…pushed into the seat…then silence…floating in vacuum.”
Public & Institutional Reaction
India rejoiced as Falcon 9 lifted off and returned safely eight minutes later, symbolizing reliability in space tech.
Schools and communities watched the docking live, celebrating Shukla’s achievement as a source of STEM inspiration.
His journey reignites India’s human spaceflight aspirations and sets the stage for more ambitious interplanetary goals.
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is not just blazingly orbiting Earth—he’s pioneering India’s next chapter in space, combining scientific exploration and heartfelt national pride. His mission is a powerful reminder that space journeys, at their core, are human stories of courage, partnership, and ambition.