10 epic moments as Shubhanshu Shukla and Axiom-4 crew return to Earth

Shubhanshu Shukla safely touched down on Earth after nearly 20 days in space. Here are 10 epic moments from his return with the Axiom-4 crew aboard Dragon.

Shubhanshu Shukla Returns to Earth: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla safely returns from the ISS after nearly 20 days in space, stepping out of Dragon capsule with calm pride. (Image: Axiom Space)

First Glimpse Post-Splashdown: Shukla’s first glimpse after stepping out of Dragon captures his composed demeanour after a historic space mission for India. (Image: Axiom Space)

India’s Space Milestone: Shukla becomes the first Indian to visit the ISS, symbolising India’s growing presence in human spaceflight and global space collaboration. (Image: Axiom Space)

Pilot in Action: During the Ax-4 mission, Shukla conducted scientific research, educational outreach, and piloted the Dragon spacecraft on its return from the ISS. (Image: Axiom Space)

Commander Peggy Whitson Smiles Wide: Veteran NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson steps out of Dragon smiling, celebrating her fourth trip to space with the Ax-4 crew. (Image: Axiom Space)

Suave Uznanski Waves to Media: ESA astronaut Slawosz “Suave” Uznanski-Wisniewski exits the capsule, smiling and waving at cameras after completing science work aboard the ISS. (Image: Axiom Space)

Tibor Kapu Joins the Cheers: Hungarian astronaut Tibor Kapu steps out of the Dragon capsule beaming, wrapping up a proud chapter for Hungary’s HUNOR space programme. (Image: Axiom Space)

Dragon Capsule in Ocean: The Crew Dragon 'Grace' capsule has successfully splashed down in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California. (Image: Axiom Space)

Dragon’s Four Main Parachutes Deployed Mid-Air: The Dragon spacecraft successfully splashed down today, marking the end of the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station. (Image: Axiom Space)

Family Celebrates Shukla's Return: Shukla’s family cuts cake and claps joyfully in Lucknow, celebrating his safe return with pride and patriotic emotion. (Image: PTI)