Shubhanshu Shukla: A Proud Space Journey of India’s Air Force Pilot
July 15, 2025 — a proud and historic day for India. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, an officer in the Indian Air Force and now an astronaut, returned safely to Earth after an 18-day stay in space. He was part of the Axiom-4 mission, becoming the first Indian to visit the International Space Station (ISS). What makes this even more special is that he is also the first Indian to go to space in 41 years.
Early Life and Education
Shubhanshu Shukla was born in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. From a young age, he showed signs of brilliance and discipline. He studied at City Montessori School, where he met his future wife Kamna Mishra, who is now a dentist. The couple has a son.
Inspired by the Kargil War in 1999, Shukla decided to serve the country. He appeared for and cleared the NDA (National Defence Academy) exam. After completing his graduation, he joined the Indian Air Force in 2006 as a fighter pilot
A Skilled Test Pilot
Over the years, Shukla built a distinguished career in the Air Force. He became a skilled test pilot with over 2,000 hours of flying experience. He has flown several types of combat and transport aircraft including the Sukhoi Su-30MKI, MiG-21, MiG-29, Jaguar, Hawk, Dornier 228, and Antonov An-32.
Training for Space
In 2019, Shukla was selected by ISRO for its Gaganyaan human spaceflight program. In 2020, he went to the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in Russia for basic astronaut training. Later, he received mission-specific training at ISRO’s astronaut center in Bengaluru. During this time, he also completed his Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc).
The Axiom-4 Mission and Return to Earth
On July 14, 2025, at 4:45 PM IST, the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft undocked from the ISS. After a journey of around 22.5 hours, the spacecraft safely splashed down near the California coast on July 15 at 3:00 PM IST. Shukla was joined on the mission by: 2) Peggy Whitson (USA),3) Sławosz Uznański (Poland) 4)Tibor Kapu (Hungary)
His Role in Space
During his stay aboard the ISS, Shubhanshu Shukla conducted several scientific experiments proposed by Indian researchers. He also spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi via video call and interacted with Indian school students through ham radio.
Rehabilitation and Looking Ahead
Currently, Shukla is undergoing a rehabilitation program, where doctors are helping his body readjust to Earth’s gravity. After spending time in microgravity, it takes a few days for the body to fully return to normal.
Shubhanshu Shukla’s journey is a new milestone in the history of India’s space exploration. From being a fighter pilot to becoming an astronaut, his story is not just a personal achievement — it’s an inspiration for every young Indian. Without a doubt, Shukla has made India proud.
