Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, India’s second astronaut to travel to space, has expressed his readiness to contribute to the Gaganyaan mission using insights gained from his recent Axiom-4 flight. He returned after spending 21 days in space, including 18 days on the International Space Station, marking a significant milestone for India’s presence in human space exploration.
Speaking at a joint press briefing with his Axiom-4 crewmates Commander Peggy Whitson, Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, and Tibor Kapu, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla called the experience both transformative and invaluable. He described the journey as intense and said it condensed a year’s worth of learning into just three weeks.
He recalled the emotional moment after landing when he spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling it a powerful reminder of India’s long-awaited return to space after 41 years. He said the mission symbolized a second beginning for India in space, one where the country is ready to take a leading role in future space exploration.
The astronaut highlighted that training for the Axiom-4 mission began in August 2024. Despite rigorous simulations, real conditions in space brought their own challenges, particularly adapting to microgravity. He explained that while disorienting at first, he adjusted quickly and was soon able to carry out the full range of experiments and activities aboard the ISS.
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla also shared details about his physical recovery after reentry. He mentioned experiencing difficulty walking immediately after the mission but regained strength and balance within a few days with help from rehabilitation exercises. He now feels physically normal and mentally prepared for future missions.
He expressed gratitude to the Indian Air Force, ISRO, NASA, SpaceX, and the Government of India for making the mission possible. He emphasized that the real work begins now, as he is ready to apply his firsthand knowledge to help shape India’s first indigenous human spaceflight.
“This is just the beginning of India’s future in human space exploration,” said Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, as he reaffirmed his commitment to support the Gaganyaan program in every way possible.
