Shubhanshu Shukla’s First Words from ISS Leave India in Awe

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 26: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, a 39-year-old pilot from Lucknow, entered the International Space Station (ISS) and made India proud again. He is the second Indian to ever reach space and the first to step into the ISS. Shukla called it a “privilege” to see Earth from such a height. His message from space was full of excitement and emotion. The nation watched proudly as his dreams soared above the clouds.

The Crew and the Welcome

Shubhanshu entered the ISS along with three fellow astronauts. He was warmly welcomed by the station team. He received his official astronaut pin from Axiom-4 commander Peggy Whitson. He said he instantly felt at home and honoured by the warm gesture. Being called “astronaut 634” is not just a number—it’s a new identity for an Indian in space. The bond between the crew shows how space connects people beyond borders.

The Mission and the Journey

The Axiom-4 mission was launched with a 28-hour journey aboard the Dragon spacecraft. The spacecraft smoothly docked at the ISS, completing its Earth rounds. Shukla’s role as a mission pilot reflects his long years of training in the Indian Air Force. From flying jets to navigating space, his journey speaks of preparation, patience, and passion. The mission’s focus is research in microgravity over the next 14 days.

The Work Begins in Space

Once inside, Shukla shared how amazed he felt seeing Earth from above. He said, “Whatever expectations I had of coming here were surpassed.” The next two weeks will be spent doing research in microgravity. He is confident that these experiments will help improve science back on Earth. His joy was not just about the view, but also the teamwork and the tasks ahead. His dedication stands as a message to youth everywhere.

Looking Back at India’s Space Past

The last Indian to go to space was Rakesh Sharma in 1984. After four decades, Shubhanshu Shukla’s space journey marks a fresh chapter. Rakesh Sharma made history with an eight-day mission, and now Shukla will spend 14 days working with international experts. His success is not just his own, but India’s. It inspires a generation that dreams of space. Shukla’s flight reminds us that the sky is never the limit—it’s only the beginning.