Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has undocked from the International Space Station (ISS), wrapping up an 18-day mission that has captured global attention and marked a major milestone for India’s space ambitions.
Shukla, aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft ‘Grace,’ began his return journey on Monday, July 14, alongside his Axiom-4 (Ax-4) crewmates—Commander Peggy Whitson and Mission Specialists Slawosz “Suave” Uznanski-Wisniewski and Tibor Kapu. The crew is scheduled to splash down in the Pacific Ocean off San Diego, California, at 3:01 pm IST on Tuesday (2:31 am PT).
This mission makes Shukla the second Indian to travel to space, following Rakesh Sharma’s iconic flight in 1984. More than a personal achievement, his journey reflects India’s growing presence in the global space community.
The spacecraft undocked at 4:45 pm IST on Monday, beginning a 22.5-hour return path. The critical de-orbit burn is set for 2:07 pm IST, followed by trunk separation at 2:26 pm IST. The capsule will endure re-entry temperatures nearing 1,600°C before parachutes ensure a safe landing.
Watch the Splashdown Live
Viewers can watch the splashdown live via NASA TV, SpaceX’s YouTube channel, and Axiom Space’s social media.
During the mission, Shukla completed seven scientific experiments, including studies on Tardigrades, Myogenesis, sprouting of seeds, and microbial growth in microgravity—advancing research in space biology and sustainability.
His return marks a proud moment for India and a step forward for global space collaboration.
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