Newly released photographs from the Indian government have captured a historic moment as Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla became the first Indian to set foot on the International Space Station (ISS). The images show Shukla gazing out over Earth from the ISS’s iconic seven-windowed Cupola Module, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the planet.
Shukla, who is the mission pilot for the Axiom-4 mission, docked with the ISS on June 26 after completing a 28-hour orbital journey with his three crewmates. The mission is led by veteran astronaut Peggy Whitson, while Shukla’s role marks a significant milestone for India’s space ambitions.
In a conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi this week, Shukla reflected on seeing India from orbit. “When I saw India for the first time from space, it appeared much larger and grander than on the map,” he said. “You can truly feel the sense of oneness; there are no borders, no lines. It feels as if this entire Earth is our home and we are all its citizens.”
The government’s social media post accompanying the photos celebrated Shukla’s achievement: “Gazing Down From The Space! Group Capt Shubhanshu Shukla enjoys the stunning panoramic view of Earth from the 7-windowed Cupola Module aboard the International Space Station. It’s been a remarkable journey as he marks a week in orbit, representing India among the stars.”
Shukla is only the second Indian to travel to space, carrying forward the legacy of Rakesh Sharma while showcasing India’s growing role in international human spaceflight.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)