Shubhanshu Shukla's Axiom-4 mission to splash down off San Diego at 3:01 pm
Dragon will also announce its arrival with a brief sonic boom prior to splashing down in the Pacific Ocean pic.twitter.com/dS3KuHVWdH
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New Indian Express
an hour ago
- New Indian Express
Union Cabinet hails Shukla's historic space odyssey as new chapter in India's space programme
NEW DELHI: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, passed a resolution on Wednesday congratulating Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force for successfully completing his historic 18-day mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The Cabinet asserted that the mission heralded a new chapter in India's space programme. Briefing the media after the meeting, Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, while reading out the resolution, said Shukla's space journey was a moment of pride, glory and joy for the entire nation and represented the country's infinite aspirations. 'The Cabinet joins the nation in celebrating the return of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla to Earth, following the successful completion of his historic 18-day mission aboard the International Space Station,' the resolution read. Shukla, along with three other astronauts on the private Axiom-4 mission, returned to Earth on Tuesday after spending 20 days in space, of which 18 days were aboard the ISS. The mission was launched on 25 June, with Shukla as mission pilot. He became the first Indian to travel to the ISS. In the resolution, the government said the successful mission significantly elevates India's global standing in space exploration. 'It is a vital stepping stone towards India's own human spaceflight ambitions, including the Gaganyaan mission and the Bharatiya Antariksha Station. It reaffirms India's resolve to be at the forefront of human space exploration,' it further stated, adding: 'It heralds a new chapter in India's space programme and gives a golden glimpse of our future space endeavours.' 'Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla's mission is not just a personal triumph, but a beacon of inspiration for a new generation of young Indians. It will ignite scientific temper, fuel curiosity, and inspire countless youth to pursue careers in science and embrace innovation,' the resolution said. The Union Cabinet also commended the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the entire community of scientists and engineers whose relentless efforts made this achievement possible. During his time aboard the ISS, Shukla worked seamlessly with fellow members of the Axiom-4 Crew and Expedition 73, embodying India's growing leadership in international space cooperation. Shukla conducted pioneering experiments in microgravity on subjects such as muscle regeneration, algal and microbial growth, crop viability, microbial survivability, cognitive performance in space, and the behaviour of cyanobacteria, the Minister said while reading the resolution. 'These studies will deepen global understanding of human spaceflight and microgravity science, and provide critical inputs for India's future missions,' he added. The Cabinet also applauded the visionary and decisive leadership of Prime Minister Modi, whose strategic foresight, unwavering belief in India's space potential, and consistent guidance have enabled the country to chart new frontiers and emerge as a leader among spacefaring nations. The resolution concluded by reaffirming the Union Cabinet's firm conviction that this mission will energise the national resolve to build Viksit Bharat — a developed India — by 2047, as envisioned by the Prime Minister. Ends
NDTV
an hour ago
- NDTV
"New Chapter...": Cabinet Praises Shubhanshu Shukla's Historic ISS Mission
The Union Cabinet praised the return of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla from his historic 18-day mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), describing it as a moment of "pride, glory, and joy" for the nation and a significant milestone in India's space journey. Group Captain Shukla, who returned to Earth on July 15, became the first Indian astronaut to travel to the ISS, an achievement the Cabinet described as a "watershed moment" for India's space programme. "This mission heralds a new chapter in India's space journey and reflects the infinite aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians," the Cabinet said in a statement, lauding the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the wider scientific community for making the feat possible. Mr Shukla had launched aboard a commercial flight on June 25 as the Mission Pilot of the Axiom-4 Crew, participating in experiments that scientists say will inform future space exploration efforts by India. During his stay at the ISS, Mr Shukla conducted a range of pioneering experiments in microgravity, including studies on muscle regeneration, algal growth, microbial survivability, crop viability, cognitive performance in space, and cyanobacteria behaviour. These experiments are expected to yield crucial insights for India's future space missions. The Cabinet noted that the mission not only enhanced India's global standing in space exploration but also acted as a stepping stone towards upcoming initiatives such as the Gaganyaan mission and the Bharatiya Antariksha Station. Praising the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Cabinet credited his "strategic foresight" and "unwavering belief" in India's space potential for the country's growing stature among spacefaring nations. The statement also highlighted India's recent achievements in space, including the successful Chandrayaan-3 landing near the Moon's south pole in August 2023 - now commemorated as National Space Day - and the launch of the Aditya-L1 solar mission, which has significantly contributed to global understanding of solar activity. The Cabinet underlined the government's push for reforms in the space sector, which has led to the emergence of around 300 new space startups, resulting in large-scale job creation and fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. Calling Group Captain Shukla's mission "a beacon of inspiration," the Cabinet said it would ignite curiosity among the country's youth and strengthen the resolve to build a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) by 2047. "His journey is not just a personal triumph but a national moment of inspiration - one that will awaken scientific temper and shape India's next generation of innovators and explorers," the statement read.
NDTV
an hour ago
- NDTV
Shubhanshu Shukla Recovering Well After Historic Space Mission
New Delhi: India's astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla emerged from the 'Grace' crew Dragon space capsule with a smile on his face, but as was expected he was assisted by attendants as he stood up and gingerly walked out for his mandatory medical examination. "Shukla is fit and recovering well and adjusting to Earth's gravity," an Indian Air Force (IAF) physician who spoke to him after he returned from space told NDTV. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said that during his stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS), Group Captain Shukla adapted exceptionally well to the microgravity environment. Despite the physical and psychological challenges of spaceflight, he maintained optimal health throughout the mission, ISRO said. Just before his return to Earth, Group Captain Shukla on board the orbiting laboratory said, "For the first few days, when I came to this station, I actually became slow. So that was my adaptation to microgravity. But I think it was the initial two days, and after that, everything became normal. And right now, I think I'm very well-adjusted to microgravity." ISRO said Group Captain Shukla is undergoing a structured post-mission medical evaluation and recovery protocol under the supervision of Axiom Space and ISRO flight surgeons. "This programme, spanning seven days, includes cardiovascular assessments, musculoskeletal tests, and psychological debriefs aimed at ensuring full physiological recovery and data capture for future missions," ISRO said. NASA has a dedicated team of doctors who look after transitioning from weightlessness back to Earth's gravity as it creates unique physiological challenges that need carefully structured rehabilitation. "There is an incredible group of dedicated athletic trainers and physical therapists who manage and implement the post-flight rehabilitation for the crew. This starts the very next day after landing and involves two hours per day for six weeks of progressive physical training," NASA Flight Surgeon and Clinical Assistant Professor Natacha Chough said. This intensive regimen helps astronauts rebuild balance, coordination, and core strength - all systems that become relatively dormant during extended microgravity exposure. "Your balance and neuromuscular coordination require re-training because in weightlessness, your brain becomes almost entirely dependent on your visual input for orientation," Dr Chough said. "If you ask a returned astronaut to stand with their eyes closed in the early post-landing phase, they can have difficulty keeping their balance when that visual input is taken away, because their inner ear and cerebellum, both of which rely on gravity for inputs and normally assist the eyes with balance, coordination, and orientation, haven't been as active while in space." She said important recovery milestones, such as regaining pre-flight baseline balance, typically occur within seven to 10 days, allowing astronauts to resume everyday activities like driving. Many misconceptions about spaceflight medicine stem from dramatic portrayals in popular media, where medical emergencies are often exaggerated for dramatic effect or important preventive measures are omitted entirely. "Overall, in-flight medical issues tend to be over-exaggerated or under-represented, probably because they aren't as exciting for the silver screen," Dr Chough added. Contrary to Hollywood portrayals, NASA has never had to return an astronaut early from space due to medical issues - a testament to the rigorous preventive approach at the heart of aerospace medicine. To understand the science behind space travel, NDTV spoke with Dr W Selvamurthy, President of Amity University and a renowned medical physiologist. With decades of experience studying human adaptation in extreme environments - from submarines to the icy heights of Siachen and now to space - Dr Selvamurthy offered a unique perspective on what Group Captain Shukla would have experienced in orbit. The Microgravity Challenge The ISS orbits Earth at an altitude of approximately 400 kilometres, where the gravitational pull is significantly reduced. This creates a microgravity environment, one of the most defining and challenging aspects of space travel. "In microgravity, the gravitational force that influences our physiological systems is absent," Dr Selvamurthy said. "The first system to be affected is the cardiovascular system. On Earth, gravity helps regulate blood flow. In space, without that force, blood rushes toward the head, leading to fluid redistribution and pressure changes in the brain." This shift can cause facial puffiness, nasal congestion, and even vision changes. The heart, which no longer has to work against gravity, may weaken over time. However, Dr Selvamurthy reassured that during a short duration mission, these effects are minimal and reversible. Balance And Orientation Another system impacted by microgravity is the vestibular system, responsible for balance and spatial orientation. "Our sense of equilibrium is maintained by the semi-circular canals in the inner ear," Dr Selvamurthy said. "These rely on gravity to function properly. In space, astronauts often experience disorientation, dizziness, and motion sickness." The cerebellum, which coordinates movement and balance, also undergoes changes. Astronauts must adapt quickly to floating in a weightless environment, where even simple tasks like eating or sleeping require new techniques. Disrupted Biological Rhythms On Earth, our bodies are synchronised with the 24-hour day-night cycle. But on the ISS, astronauts see 16 sunrises and sunsets every 24 hours. This rapid cycling of light and dark can disrupt the circadian rhythm - the internal clock that regulates sleep, hormone production, and metabolism. "Sleep is deeply tied to solar cues," said Dr Selvamurthy. "In space, the absence of a consistent light-dark cycle affects neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to sleep disturbances and fatigue." To counter this, astronauts follow a strict schedule and use artificial lighting to simulate Earth-like conditions. Over time, their bodies adjust to social cues rather than solar ones. Muscles, Bones, And The Body's Framework One of the well-documented effects of space travel is muscle atrophy and bone density loss. "On Earth, gravity provides resistance that keeps our muscles and bones strong," Dr Selvamurthy said. "In space, without that resistance, weight-bearing muscles weaken, and bones lose minerals." However, these changes typically occur during long-duration missions. "In a short duration mission, the impact on muscle and bone health is negligible," he added. "There may be minor deconditioning, but it is not clinically significant." Astronauts engage in daily exercise routines using resistance bands and specialised equipment to maintain physical fitness. The Psychological Frontier Beyond the physical, space travel also poses psychological challenges. Astronauts live in confined quarters, isolated from family and familiar surroundings. "Monotony, sensory deprivation, and the fear of the unknown can lead to stress," Dr Selvamurthy said. "Living in a small space with a few people for an extended period can be mentally taxing." To prepare astronauts for these conditions, psychological training is as important as physical conditioning. Group Captain Shukla has undergone rigorous training to build resilience and adaptability. Yoga: India's Space Medicine One of the unique aspects of India's astronaut training programme is the integration of yoga. "Yoga is our Brahmastra," Dr Selvamurthy said. "It is prophylactic, promotive, and curative. It prevents illness, enhances performance, and aids recovery." Scientific studies conducted by Dr Selvamurthy and his team have shown that yoga improves immunity, cognitive function, and emotional stability. "Practices like pranayama and meditation help regulate breathing, reduce stress, and maintain focus," he said. "They are especially valuable in the closed, high-stress environment of space." Group Captain Shukla has been trained in yoga as part of his pre-mission preparation. According to Dr Selvamurthy, this will not only help him stay healthy but also enhance his operational efficiency. Union Science Minister Dr Jitendra Singh called the Group Captain's return "a moment of glory for India as one of her illustrious sons returns from a successful voyage, having conducted for the posterity, life-bearing experiments in microgravity, never done before. Bharat today finds an enduring space in the world of space." Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said he joined the nation in welcoming Group Captain Shukla on his return from a historic mission to space. "As India's first astronaut to visit the ISS, Group Captain Shukla inspired a billion dreams through his dedication, courage and pioneering spirit. It marks another milestone towards our own human space flight mission - Gaganyaan." India Congratulates Group Captain Shukla The Union cabinet on Tuesday passed a resolution on the return of Group Captain Shukla from the ISS. "This is an occasion of immense pride, glory, and joy for the entire nation. The Union cabinet, along with the nation, congratulates Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla on his successful return to Earth. He has completed a historic 18-day mission aboard the ISS, marking the first time an Indian astronaut has been to the station. This achievement opens a new chapter in India's space programme, representing a giant leap in our journey into space and offering a golden glimpse into its future," Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said in a post on X. "The Union cabinet also extends congratulations to the entire team at ISRO, including the scientists and engineers, for this historic success," he added.
