Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, part of India’s Gaganyatri mission, is making history aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Arriving on June 26 for a 14-day mission, Shukla has been actively engaged in scientific research and outreach activities. His presence in the iconic cupola of the ISS symbolizes India’s growing role in space exploration. During a conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shukla shared his awe-inspiring view of Earth from space, noting that borders are invisible from above, highlighting a sense of global unity.

The mission, led by Axiom Space, includes commander Peggy Whitson and fellow crew members Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski and Tibor Kapu. Together, they have completed nine days of intensive research and technology demonstrations. Their work includes experiments that could revolutionize space exploration and improve life on Earth. Shukla’s tasks involve studying muscle atrophy in microgravity, deploying samples for the Space Micro Algae experiment, and conducting the ‘Sprouts project’ to understand plant growth in space.

Despite the significance of these activities, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has yet to release images or videos of Shukla’s experiences. However, outreach events have been held with students in Thiruvananthapuram, Bengaluru, and Lucknow, where over 500 students interacted with Shukla. These events aim to inspire young minds to pursue careers in science and technology.

Shukla’s mission also includes a STEM demonstration to show how microgravity affects physical and chemical changes. His interaction with PM Modi was marked by a patriotic sentiment as he described India as “bhavya” from space, echoing sentiments from past Indian astronauts.

The mission underscores ISRO’s commitment to fostering interest in space among India’s youth. As anticipation builds for more content from this historic mission, it is clear that Group Captain Shukla’s journey is inspiring a new generation of aspiring astronauts.