Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla created history by becoming the first Indian to reach the International Space Station (ISS), marking a proud moment in the nation’s space journey.
The Indian government released a set of images capturing this landmark achievement, with Shukla seen gazing at the Earth from the seven-windowed Cupola Module aboard the ISS, symbolising India’s growing presence in space exploration.
A caption accompanying the images read, “Gazing Down From The Space! Group Capt Shubhanshu Shukla enjoys the stunning panoramic view of Earth from the 7-windowed Cupola Module aboard the International Space Station. It’s been a remarkable journey as he marks a week in orbit, representing India among the stars.”
Shukla, serving as mission pilot for the Axiom-4 mission, docked with the ISS on 26 June following a 28-hour journey around the Earth.
The mission is led by veteran astronaut Peggy Whitson as commander.
Alongside three international crew members, Shukla’s role is a testament to India’s increasing collaboration and capability in global space missions.
In the pictures circulated online, Shukla is shown calmly seated inside the ISS, with the Earth forming a mesmerising backdrop.
Speaking to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shukla shared his emotional experience of viewing India from space.
“When I saw India for the first time from space, it appeared much larger and grander than on the map. You can truly feel the sense of oneness; there are no borders, no lines. It feels as if this entire Earth is our home and we are all its citizens,” he told the Prime Minister.
His words, however, echoed the ancient Indian philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ – the world is one family – aligning space exploration with a deeper humanistic message of unity and shared destiny.
However, PM Narendra Modi had earlier celebrated the moment, expressing his pride and support for the mission.
In a message on social platform X, the Prime Minister wrote, “We welcome the successful launch of the Space Mission carrying astronauts from India, Hungary, Poland and the US. The Indian Astronaut, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is on the way to become the first Indian to go to International Space Station. He carries with him the wishes, hopes and aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians. Wish him and other astronauts all the success!”
Group Captain Shukla’s journey not only places India on a global stage but also paves the way for future Indian space endeavours.
His presence aboard the ISS further demonstrates the potential of Indian talent and the country’s growing role in international space cooperation, inspiring a new generation of scientists, engineers, and dreamers across the nation.
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