'Excited that our son is returning and landing on Earth': Shubhanshu Shukla's father on splashdown of Dragon spacecraft

Shubhanshu Shukla’s Family Awaits Splashdown with Pride and Prayer (Image: ANI)

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is set to return to Earth today after spending nearly 20 days in space, including 19 aboard the International Space Station (ISS), as part of the Axiom Mission 4. His family in Lucknow is eagerly awaiting his safe landing, calling it a proud moment for the entire nation.

"He Belongs to the Nation," Says Shukla's Father

Shambhu Dayal Shukla, the astronaut’s father, expressed heartfelt emotions while speaking to ANI. “It is a historic moment,” he said. “He is our son, but now he belongs to the nation. We are thankful for the support and prayers of every citizen.”

The family offered prayers and visited a temple for a safe return. “It is a day of joy for us all,” he added. “We remembered God and hoped for a smooth landing.”

Mission Update: Dragon carrying Shubhanshu Shukla Set for Splashdown

Shukla is aboard SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft ‘Grace’ alongside his Ax-4 crewmates. The team undocked from the ISS at 4:45 PM IST on Monday. Splashdown is scheduled for around 3 PM IST today in the Pacific Ocean near San Diego, California.

NASA confirmed that the Dragon undocked from the Harmony module, marking the conclusion of the fourth private astronaut mission to the space station.

Final Descent Over Pacific Waters

SpaceX said the Dragon will re-enter Earth’s atmosphere with a brief sonic boom before touching down in the ocean. The journey back is expected to last approximately 22.5 hours.

Shukla, now the first Indian astronaut to visit the ISS, has brought global attention to India's advancing space capabilities. The entire nation awaits his safe return with admiration and pride.

(Inputs from ANI)