In a milestone moment for India’s space ambitions, astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will return to Earth on July 15, 2025, after completing an 18-day mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). His re-entry aboard the Crew Dragon spacecraft, operated under the Axiom-4 commercial spaceflight mission, will conclude with a splashdown off the coast of California. Following his return, Shukla will undergo a comprehensive seven-day rehabilitation program, designed to help him readjust to Earth’s gravity after living in microgravity.

ISS Departure and Return Timeline

The Axiom-4 crew, which included mission commander Peggy Whitson, Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski from Poland, and Tibor Kapu from Hungary, alongside India’s Shubhanshu Shukla, had docked at the ISS on June 26, 2025. Their scheduled undocking from the ISS is planned for July 14 at 4:35 PM IST (7:05 AM ET). According to NASA, their journey back to Earth will span nearly 17 hours, culminating in a splashdown on July 15 at around 3 PM IST.

The autonomous undocking sequence will be followed by orbital maneuvers and re-entry preparations, managed by SpaceX’s Crew Dragon system.

Rehabilitation to Restore Physiological Balance

After returning to Earth, Shubhanshu Shukla will participate in a week-long rehabilitation program, monitored closely by a flight surgeon and medical staff. This is standard procedure for astronauts after extended exposure to microgravity, which can affect muscle tone, cardiovascular function, and balance.

ISRO officials confirmed that Shukla is in high spirits and has been under continuous medical and psychological monitoring via private communication sessions. His post-mission recovery will be critical for data collection and used in preparation for India’s ambitious Gaganyaan mission, expected to launch in 2027.

The cost of Shukla’s mission, including training and participation in the Axiom-4 mission, is estimated to be around Rs 550 crore, as per ISRO sources. The insights gained from his physical adaptation post-mission will directly inform human health protocols for Gaganyaan astronauts.

Life in Orbit: From Halwa to Shrimp Cocktail

The final days aboard the ISS have been both productive and memorable for the crew. Commander Peggy Whitson shared updates, highlighting moments of bonding over space meals like rehydrated shrimp cocktails. Adding a touch of India to the international menu, Shukla treated the crew to carrot halwa and mango nectar, symbolizing cultural pride and camaraderie in space.

Scientific Contributions from Shukla’s Mission

Shukla’s role on the ISS was not just symbolic. He participated in several critical scientific experiments, particularly:

1. Microalgae Experiment

Shukla was directly involved in deploying and stowing microalgae samples. These organisms are being studied for their potential to produce food, oxygen, and even biofuels—important for sustained life during long-term missions like Mars expeditions. According to Axiom Space, microalgae could become a key asset in deep-space habitation.

2. Voyager Displays Study

This neurological study evaluated the impact of spaceflight on eye movement and coordination. The findings will be instrumental in designing future astronaut interfaces and spacecraft controls.

3. Environmental Interaction Monitoring

Shukla participated in a study aimed at understanding how astronauts perceive and adapt to their immediate surroundings in orbit, a vital element in creating ergonomic space habitats.

4. Cardiovascular and Cognitive Health

Additional studies measured the impact of microgravity and high CO₂ levels on astronaut heart function, which also has terrestrial applications for patients with similar symptoms.
The team also conducted the Acquired Equivalence Test, evaluating learning, memory, and adaptability during space travel.

5. PhotonGrav and Radiation Monitoring

Another key area was brain activity monitoring under the PhotonGrav study, exploring neuroadaptive technologies. Meanwhile, radiation exposure was logged using the Rad Nano Dosimeter, which supports space safety standards.

Significance for India’s Human Spaceflight Goals

Shubhanshu Shukla’s ISS stint isn’t an isolated achievement—it marks a stepping stone for ISRO’s long-term goals, particularly Gaganyaan. As India prepares to send its own astronauts into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) by 2027 using indigenous technology, this international collaboration provides valuable insight into training, recovery, and astronaut health management.

Shukla’s rehabilitation will be meticulously documented, including:

• Vestibular and musculoskeletal assessments

• Cardiovascular monitoring during mobility exercises

• Nutritional recovery planning

• Psychological support sessions

• Training debriefs and experimental feedback collection

His data will be integrated into astronaut selection and training modules for Gaganyaan.

Global Collaboration and Diplomatic Value

Apart from scientific returns, India’s partnership with Axiom Space and NASA serves a diplomatic purpose. By participating in commercial missions, ISRO ensures that Indian astronauts are familiar with multi-national crew environments, which will be standard in future international collaborations.

Shukla’s mission also strengthens India’s stake in next-gen orbital research and could accelerate India’s entry into deeper space ventures, like space station contributions, Moon missions, and Mars exploration.

Public Anticipation and National Pride

The return of Shubhanshu Shukla is being closely followed in India. Social media platforms are flooded with messages of admiration, while schools, universities, and space clubs are gearing up to celebrate his homecoming.

A live broadcast of the Crew Dragon splashdown is expected to be streamed by NASA and ISRO, and plans are underway to honour him post-rehab, including media interviews, public interactions, and a technical debrief with space researchers in India.

Conclusion: From ISS to Gaganyaan, the Journey Begins

The scheduled July 15 splashdown of Shubhanshu Shukla and the seven-day rehabilitation program that follows will be critical not only for his personal health but also for the advancement of India’s human spaceflight program.

Shukla’s contribution through experiments, collaboration, and recovery insights are laying the foundation for India’s future astronauts, who will soon launch aboard ISRO's Gaganyaan spacecraft. His presence aboard the ISS, his Indian meals in microgravity, and his data contributions have proven that India is ready—not just to launch astronauts, but to lead in space science and exploration.

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