As Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla prepares to return to Earth after an 18-day mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), political leaders across party lines have hailed the achievement as a proud milestone in India’s space journey.

Shukla, part of Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), is the first Indian astronaut in 41 years to reach the ISS. His return will begin with undocking at 4:30 PM IST on July 14, followed by a scheduled splashdown in the Pacific Ocean near California at around 3:00 PM IST on July 15.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anand Dubey called it “a moment of immense pride,” saying, “There are very few people who achieve what he has. The entire country is waiting to hear about his experiences.”

BJP leader Sanjay Upadhyay highlighted the mission’s significance for India’s scientific progress. “Students and young scientists are eager to learn from Shukla’s work. His insights will inspire future generations,” he said.

BJP MP Agnimitra Paul also praised the mission, crediting Prime Minister Modi’s leadership for motivating Indians to achieve global excellence. “He returns after conducting successful space experiments—this is a proud moment for the nation,” she said.

During the mission, Shukla and his Ax-4 crew performed over 60 experiments in biology, materials science, AI, and human health. Several of these were developed by ISRO, supporting India’s Gaganyaan human spaceflight program. A key highlight included photographing six crop seed types in microgravity, with post-mission genetic analysis aimed at enhancing space agriculture.

Speaking to Axiom Space’s Chief Scientist, Shukla said, “I feel proud to serve as a bridge between researchers and the station.”