India is celebrating a stellar homecoming today as astronaut and Air Force officer Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla safely returned to Earth after a groundbreaking mission aboard the Axiom-4 spaceflight — a moment that's ignited pride across the nation and drawn glowing tributes from top political leaders.

After completing 310+ orbits and logging over 13 million kilometres around the Earth during an 18-day stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS), Shukla splashed down in the Pacific Ocean near San Diego early Tuesday, marking the triumphant end to his interstellar journey.

Leading the wave of congratulations was Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who praised the mission as a "glorious symbol of courage, dedication and commitment to science." In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote, “Welcome back to Earth! Heartfelt congratulations to Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and his team on the successful completion of the historic #AxiomMission4. Every Indian, especially the people of Uttar Pradesh, is proud today.”

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Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya called the return “Shubhanshu’s auspicious homecoming,” highlighting the mission’s inspirational value for millions of young Indians. "Having touched the heights of space, Group Captain Shukla has brought immense pride to both the state and the country," Maurya posted in Hindi.

BSP chief Mayawati also applauded the astronaut, saying his achievement will uplift youth and benefit the nation for generations. “Heartfelt congratulations to Shukla, his family, and every scientist behind this success,” she said, calling the mission’s experiments a "boon for crores of Indians."

Shukla’s scientific contributions during the mission included seven microgravity experiments under ISRO’s guidance, investigating everything from muscle regeneration and radiation effects to crop resilience, algae growth, and human physiology — research that could be pivotal for India’s upcoming Gaganyaan human-spaceflight programme.

Originally from Lucknow, Shukla’s return has ignited emotional scenes back home. Family members, friends, and well-wishers have hailed the mission as a “landmark moment” in India’s space journey.

As India looks to expand its presence in space, Shukla’s journey has become a beacon of what’s possible — showing that the stars aren’t just for dreaming, but for reaching.

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