Human Interest

Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to Begin Return Journey to Earth on July 14


Panaji, July 11, 2025: Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla is all set to begin his return to Earth on July 14, 2025, aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, after a successful mission alongside international colleagues. Shukla, part of a multi-national crew including veteran astronaut Peggy Whitson, Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, and Tibor Kapu, has spent the past few weeks conducting scientific research and participating in international collaborative tasks in space.

The spacecraft will undock from the space-facing port of the Harmony module aboard the International Space Station (ISS), beginning the carefully coordinated descent back to Earth. The mission has been hailed as a significant milestone in India’s rising profile in global space exploration.

Shubhanshu Shukla’s journey marks a proud chapter for India, adding to the growing number of Indian-origin astronauts making their mark in space. This mission, supported by agencies like ISRO, NASA, and SpaceX, highlights the increasing collaboration between Indian and global space efforts.

The SpaceX Dragon capsule, known for its reusability and advanced safety features, will perform a controlled splashdown upon re-entry, concluding the mission that brought together innovation, international teamwork, and scientific advancement.

Shukla’s safe return is eagerly anticipated not just by mission control, but also by millions of proud Indians following his journey. His success is likely to inspire a new generation of Indian youth to dream beyond the skies.

Stay tuned for live updates and official re-entry coverage.

Human Interest

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


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.