🚀 Who Is Shubhanshu Shukla?
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is a decorated officer of the Indian Air Force, a test pilot, and now — one of India’s most iconic astronauts. Born in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, in 1985, he’s become the first Indian to travel to the International Space Station (ISS), marking India’s return to space after 41 years.
“Jai Hind, Jai Bharat!” — Shukla’s first words as the Falcon 9 lifted off into space on 25 June 2025.
🎓 His Educational & Military Background
- Schooling: City Montessori School, Lucknow
- Graduation: BSc in Computer Science from NDA (2005)
- Postgrad: M.Tech in Aerospace Engineering from IISc Bangalore
- Military Career: Commissioned in 2006 as a fighter pilot in the IAF
- Flight Hours: Over 2,000+ on aircraft including Su-30 MKI, MiG-21, Jaguar, An-32, and more
In 2019, he was selected among the elite group of astronauts for India’s Gaganyaan mission and trained extensively in both Russia and India.
🛰️ His Mission: Axiom-4 and the ISS
Shukla is now pilot of Axiom Mission 4, a private commercial spaceflight operated by SpaceX and Axiom Space. Launched aboard Falcon 9 and riding the Crew Dragon spacecraft, the mission is docked at the ISS.
🧪 Purpose of the Mission
- Conducting 60+ research experiments across medicine, biology, material science, and climate
- Collaborating with 31 nations, symbolizing global science cooperation
- Gaining invaluable human spaceflight experience for India’s future missions
🇮🇳 A Proud Moment for India
The last Indian to fly into space was Rakesh Sharma in 1984. Shukla’s mission brings the Indian tricolor back to low Earth orbit, rekindling national pride and global recognition.
His message before launch said it all:
“India is returning to space. Jai Hind!”
The reaction from across India was emotional — from school children waving flags to messages from the Prime Minister and armed forces. His mother in Lucknow watched with pride and teary eyes.
🔭 What’s Next: Gaganyaan & Beyond
Shubhanshu Shukla is part of the core astronaut team for Gaganyaan, India’s first indigenous human spaceflight mission, expected to launch around 2027. His current mission aboard Axiom-4 will feed directly into India’s tech readiness and mission architecture.
📌 Final Thoughts
Shubhanshu Shukla represents a new era for India’s space ambitions. His discipline, training, and leadership reflect a larger vision — one where India becomes a serious contender in the global space race.
From the skies of Lucknow to the orbit of the Earth, his journey is a symbol of courage, excellence, and a new chapter in India’s cosmic story.