Shubhanshu Shukla: India’s First Astronaut on the ISS and Guardian of Gaganyaan Ambitions

Mission Overview & Historical Significance

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, born on October 10, 1985, in Lucknow, is a veteran IAF test pilot and ISRO astronaut with over 2,000 hours of flight time. Selected in 2019 for India’s Gaganyaan programme, he was chosen as pilot of Axiom Mission 4 (Ax‑4), becoming the first Indian astronaut aboard the International Space Station (ISS) and the second Indian in space after Rakesh Sharma.

Launched on June 25, 2025, aboard SpaceX’s Crew Dragon “Grace,” Shukla and his three international crewmates stayed on the ISS for approximately 18–20 days, conducting over 60 scientific experiments. Their safe splashdown occurred on July 15, off the coast of California at 3:01 PM IST.

Scientific Contributions

• Human physiology: neuromuscular stimulation, radiation monitoring, space motion sickness studies
• Botanical research: microgravity seed cultivation and nutrient analysis
• Mental and cardiac health: stress and cognition monitoring

Global Collaboration & Recognition

Shukla flew alongside astronauts from the USA, Poland, and Hungary, exemplifying international cooperation in space exploration. Leaders including PM Modi and President Murmu praised the mission, with PM Modi noting it inspired "a billion dreams."

Key Mission Data

India (Lucknow/UP) Specific Details

Shukla hails from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. He studied at City Montessori School, then pursued Computer Science at NDA, followed by M.Tech from IIT. He is the son of Shambhu Dayal Shukla and Asha Shukla.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why is Shukla important? – First Indian on ISS; vital for Gaganyaan.
• How long did he stay in space? – Approximately 18–20 days.
• What is Gaganyaan? – India’s first indigenous crewed space mission.
• Will he return to India? – Yes, expected around August 17, 2025.

Key Takeaways

• First Indian astronaut on ISS
• Conducted 60+ critical experiments
• Global recognition for India’s space program
• Boosts momentum for India’s Gaganyaan mission