Sudhanshu Shukla becomes first Indian in 40 years to reach the ISS, reigniting India’s Human Spaceflight Legacy

 

Group Captain Sudhanshu Shukla Becomes First Indian in 40 Years to Reach the ISS, Reigniting India’s Human Spaceflight Legacy

In a historic moment for India, Group Captain Sudhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force lifted off to the International Space Station (ISS) on June 25, becoming the first Indian in four decades to reach the orbital laboratory. Aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, launched under the Axiom-4 private space mission, Shukla’s achievement not only revives India’s long-paused human spaceflight journey but also marks the nation’s deepening ties with global private space enterprises.

The launch, which occurred at 12:01 pm IST, carried four astronauts and spotlighted Shukla as a symbol of India’s re-emergence on the spaceflight stage. His journey comes nearly 40 years after Rakesh Sharma’s iconic flight aboard a Soviet Soyuz in 1984. Shukla was selected after undergoing rigorous training in both Russia and the United States, which included simulations, ISS operational protocols, microgravity survival training, and emergency preparedness. His military aviation background and decorated service made him a prime candidate for such a demanding role.

A day prior to the launch, Shukla shared a heartfelt message on Instagram that struck a chord with people across India. “As we plan to leave the planet early morning of 25 Jun,” he wrote, “I wish to thank everyone involved in this mission for their support… and all the people back home for their blessings and love.” His emotional tribute to his partner, Kamna Shubha, was widely appreciated: “Without you, none of this was possible — but more importantly, none of this would matter.” His closing sentiment, “No one travels to space alone,” resonated deeply, highlighting the personal sacrifices that accompany such historic endeavors.

Government officials and defence authorities hailed the mission as a strategic leap and a moment of national pride. One senior official called it a “powerful convergence of India’s space vision and global collaboration.” While India’s indigenous Gaganyaan mission remains under development, Shukla’s flight aboard a commercial space vehicle signals a confident shift toward international cooperation in human space exploration.

During his approximately one-week stay aboard the ISS, Shukla will focus on scientific experiments, particularly in biomedical research involving cardiovascular behavior in space. These experiments are being conducted in collaboration with both Indian and global institutions and are expected to provide critical insights for future long-duration space missions. Experts have also underscored the significance of his selection by a private international agency, noting it as a strong endorsement of India’s elite military aviation training and space-readiness.

Public reaction to the mission has been overwhelmingly enthusiastic. For many, it rekindles memories of Rakesh Sharma’s iconic journey, creating a new emotional milestone for the 21st century. Social media platforms lit up with admiration for Shukla’s courage and humility, especially his focus on teamwork, family, and perseverance.

Shukla’s flight also mirrors India’s growing influence in space diplomacy. With active partnerships involving the United States, Japan, France, and others, India is now a more prominent player in the global space economy. This mission reflects not only scientific and strategic ambition but also a commitment to a more inclusive and sustainable future in space exploration.

In every sense — scientific, symbolic, strategic — Group Captain Sudhanshu Shukla’s mission represents a turning point. His presence aboard the ISS is not just a personal achievement but a declaration that India is ready to take its place among the world’s spacefaring nations. From orbit, his voice carries the hopes of a billion people and signals that India is no longer content to observe space history — it is ready to shape it.