Tag: ISS Mission

National

Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla Arrives in India to a Grand Hero’s Welcome in Lucknow

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Intern Queeny George M.H , Team Allycaral

Indian Astronaut and test pilot Shubhanshu Shukla was welcomed in grandeur upon his return to India, following his successful space mission with the Axiom-4 crew. The streets of Lucknow came alive with celebrations as citizens gathered in large numbers to express their pride and admiration for the astronaut’s remarkable journey. The 39-year-old pilot, who represented India aboard the international space mission, received widespread love and praise, echoing through the heart of his hometown.

Shukla’s mission, launched on June 25, 2025, marked a historic moment for Indian spaceflight. Aboard the Crew Dragon spacecraft named Grace, launched atop a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, the Axiom-4 mission took off in collaboration with Axiom Space, NASA, and SpaceX. Alongside Shukla, the crew included Commander Peggy Whitson from the USA, and Mission Specialists Sławosz Uznanski from Poland and Tibor Kapu from Hungary. This mission represented the first government-sponsored human spaceflight in over four decades for India, Poland, and Hungary.

Spanning approximately 18 days, the mission concluded with the spacecraft’s undocking on July 14, 2025. During their time aboard the International Space Station (ISS), the crew conducted over 60 groundbreaking scientific studies, exploring areas such as crop growth in space, the behavior of cyanobacteria in microgravity, and the physiological changes experienced by the human body during extended space travel. These experiments were not only critical for future space exploration but also contributed to expanding our understanding of human adaptation to space environments.

The return of Shubhanshu Shukla is more than a celebration of individual achievement—it is a symbol of India’s growing presence in international space endeavors. With the success of the Axiom-4 mission, India takes a proud step forward in global scientific advancement, and Shukla stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring scientists and explorers across the nation.

As the city of Lucknow echoed with cheers, banners, and patriotic pride, it was clear that Shukla’s return marked a historic chapter not only in India’s space journey but also in the hearts of millions who look up to the stars with dreams of discovery.

Human Interest

India’s Taste Reaches for the Stars: ISRO & DRDO Create Space-Friendly Indian Food for Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla

allycaralgoa

In a pioneering leap that unites technology with tradition, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) have successfully developed space-friendly versions of beloved Indian dishes. This initiative, years in the making, is now set to make history as astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla prepares to carry the flavors of India to the International Space Station (ISS).

Shukla, one of India’s promising astronauts, will carry specially designed packets of moong dal halwa, gajar ka halwa, and aam ras on his upcoming mission to the ISS. These dishes, carefully preserved and adapted for microgravity, represent not just culinary innovation but a cultural milestone.

“Space food doesn’t have to be bland,” said a senior ISRO official. “With DRDO’s food science labs and our mission requirements, we’ve ensured these dishes are nutritious, lightweight, easy to consume in zero gravity, and carry the essence of India.”

The food was developed under rigorous conditions to maintain flavor, safety, and longevity in space environments. The process included freeze-drying, vacuum sealing, and thorough microbial testing—ensuring the meals are both flavorful and mission-compliant.

Shubhanshu Shukla expressed his excitement: “There’s something special about taking a part of home with you, even 400 kilometers above Earth. These dishes aren’t just food—they’re emotion, memory, and identity.”

This development reflects India’s growing prowess in space technology and soft power diplomacy, showcasing that even in the most cutting-edge scientific ventures, cultural identity remains a core component.

The mission is expected to be a crucial stepping stone in India’s manned spaceflight program, and now, thanks to this innovation, astronauts can look forward to both nourishment and nostalgia as they orbit the Earth.