India’s space aspirations received a heartfelt endorsement from one of its own heroes, Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who became the first Indian to step aboard the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom Mission-4 earlier this year. Speaking at an interactive event in Uttar Pradesh’s Deoria district, Shubhanshu Shukla described his space journey as “unforgettable” and shared insights into India’s long-term space policy, which envisions the country’s presence on the Moon by 2040. His reflections not only celebrated his personal milestone but also reinforced India’s growing confidence in human spaceflight and deep-space exploration.
Shubhanshu Shukla’s presence in Barpar village, around 15 kilometers from Deoria’s district headquarters, drew enthusiastic crowds, particularly students and young aspirants who were eager to hear about his experiences in space. The event, organised by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Shashank Mani Tripathi, turned into an inspiring dialogue about the future of India’s space ambitions, technological advancement, and the importance of nurturing a new generation of explorers.
A Journey Beyond Earth: From the ISS to Homecoming
Sharing his experiences aboard the International Space Station, Shubhanshu Shukla said that every single moment of his mission was etched in his memory forever. “Every moment in space was unforgettable,” he recalled with emotion, adding that the sight of Earth from space filled him with awe and gratitude. “The experience of seeing Earth from space and then returning home was beyond words,” he said, describing it as one of the most profound experiences of his life.
His mission as part of Axiom Mission-4, which took place between June and July 2025, marked a historic chapter in India’s human spaceflight journey. As an astronaut representing India on an international platform, Shubhanshu Shukla participated in several research experiments aboard the ISS, including those focusing on microgravity, human physiology, and material science. These studies, he noted, would not only contribute to global scientific knowledge but also aid India’s indigenous space missions like Gaganyaan and future lunar programs.
Reflecting on his return to Earth, Shubhanshu Shukla called it an “exhilarating experience,” describing how re-entering Earth’s atmosphere after spending weeks in zero gravity brought both excitement and a sense of accomplishment. “The re-entry phase was the most thrilling part of the mission. It tested every bit of our training, focus, and teamwork,” he said, emphasizing the rigorous preparation required to withstand the physical and psychological challenges of space travel.
His journey, he said, also deepened his respect for the scientists and engineers who dedicate their lives to advancing India’s space frontiers. “Behind every astronaut’s success stands a team of hundreds of scientists, engineers, and mission specialists who work tirelessly to make space travel possible. They are the real heroes,” Shubhanshu Shukla added.
India’s Space Vision: Gaganyaan and the Moon by 2040
Captain Shubhanshu Shukla underscored the significance of India’s Gaganyaan mission — the country’s first indigenous human spaceflight project. He described it as a cornerstone of India’s evolving space strategy, one that aims not just to send an Indian into space but to establish a sustainable presence in low-Earth orbit and beyond. “The mission Gaganyaan, which aims to send an Indian into space and bring him back safely, and the subsequent development of an Indian spacecraft are key components of India’s space policy,” Shubhanshu Shukla explained.
He elaborated that Gaganyaan is more than a technological venture; it is a statement of India’s readiness to join the elite group of nations capable of independent human spaceflight. “It represents a leap in national pride and scientific capability,” he said. “When we send an Indian into space aboard an Indian spacecraft, it will mark a defining moment in our history.”
Looking beyond Earth’s orbit, Shubhanshu Shukla highlighted the ambitious goal of India’s space policy — establishing a human or robotic presence on the Moon by 2040. “Reaching the Moon by 2040 is one of its main objectives,” he said, stressing that India’s approach combines innovation, international collaboration, and self-reliance. The roadmap includes developing advanced propulsion systems, sustainable lunar habitats, and deep-space communication technologies — all essential for long-term space habitation.
Shubhanshu Shukla expressed confidence in the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), which has already demonstrated its prowess through missions like Chandrayaan-3 and Aditya-L1. “ISRO has consistently proven that Indian scientists can achieve extraordinary results with limited resources,” he said. “The success of Chandrayaan-3’s soft landing on the lunar south pole is a symbol of our determination. Now, the challenge is to build upon that success and create a sustainable presence in space.”
He also acknowledged the growing role of private players in India’s space sector, calling it a “new era of collaboration.” “Private enterprises, startups, and research institutions are becoming critical contributors to India’s space ecosystem,” Shubhanshu Shukla observed. “Their innovations will help accelerate the development of indigenous spacecraft and future missions to the Moon and Mars.”
Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Dreamers
For Shubhanshu Shukla, the true purpose of his mission extends far beyond personal achievement. Speaking to hundreds of students in Deoria, he said his goal now is to inspire the next generation to dream big and pursue careers in science, technology, and space exploration. “My role now is to use the experience and technical knowledge gained during the Axiom Mission-4 to inspire the next generation,” he said.
Encouraging young minds, he emphasized that passion, perseverance, and a sense of purpose are the most important qualities for anyone aspiring to become an astronaut or space scientist. “Becoming an astronaut is not just about physical endurance. It requires curiosity, discipline, and the courage to face the unknown,” he advised. “You must learn to trust science, embrace teamwork, and never stop learning.”
He shared anecdotes from his training period, which involved months of preparation, including underwater simulations, emergency drills, and technical lessons in spacecraft operations. “Astronaut training is a journey of both body and mind,” he said. “You are constantly tested — physically, mentally, and emotionally. But what keeps you going is the dream of representing your country among the stars.”
Throughout the session, students asked questions about space life, food in zero gravity, and the challenges of living aboard the ISS. Shubhanshu Shukla patiently answered each one, offering insights into daily routines, communication with Earth, and the fascinating experiments that astronauts perform in orbit. “Life on the ISS teaches you humility,” he said. “You realize how small Earth looks from space, yet how precious it is.”
The event concluded with Shubhanshu Shukla urging young Indians to believe in the power of knowledge and ambition. He said India’s space journey is entering its most exciting phase, where innovation, global partnerships, and youth talent will play decisive roles. “The next wave of astronauts, engineers, and scientists will come from among you,” he told the students. “Our dream of reaching the Moon by 2040 and venturing deeper into the universe depends on your imagination and dedication.”
Shubhanshu Shukla’s words resonated deeply with the audience — not just as the reflections of an astronaut, but as a message of national pride and human possibility. His story, marked by courage, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, stands as a beacon for India’s scientific aspirations and the limitless potential of its youth.
