Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla Prepared to Contribute Insights to Gaganyaan Mission After Axiom-4 Spaceflight
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who recently became India's second astronaut to venture into space, has conveyed his eagerness to leverage the insights from his recent Axiom-4 mission for the Gaganyaan project. Having spent a total of 21 days in space, including 18 aboard the International Space Station, his journey marks a pivotal achievement in India's human space exploration efforts.
During a joint press conference with fellow Axiom-4 astronauts Commander Peggy Whitson, Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, and Tibor Kapu, Shukla described the mission as both transformative and invaluable. He noted that the experience was intense, effectively encapsulating a year's worth of learning into a brief three-week period.
Shukla recounted an emotional moment post-landing when he communicated with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing it as a powerful reminder of India's return to space after a 41-year hiatus. He remarked that the mission represents a new beginning for India, symbolizing the country's readiness to assume a leading role in future space endeavors.
The astronaut detailed the initiation of training for the Axiom-4 mission in August 2024. Despite extensive simulations, he noted that real space conditions posed unique challenges, especially the adaptation to microgravity. Initially disorienting, he quickly acclimated, enabling him to execute a wide array of experiments and activities on the ISS.
Shukla also discussed his physical recovery following reentry, mentioning initial difficulties with walking. However, he regained his strength and balance within a few days through rehabilitation exercises, now feeling physically normal and mentally prepared for upcoming missions.
He expressed his gratitude to the Indian Air Force, ISRO, NASA, SpaceX, and the Government of India for facilitating the mission. Emphasizing that the real work starts now, he is prepared to use his firsthand experience to contribute to India's inaugural indigenous human spaceflight.
"This is just the beginning of India’s future in human space exploration," Shukla stated, reaffirming his dedication to supporting the Gaganyaan program in every possible way.
