As Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla prepares for his return to Earth, his farewell message from the International Space Station (ISS) resonated with pride, gratitude, and hope for India’s space future.
In a heartfelt ceremony, Shukla reflected on his journey, the achievements of the mission, and the collaborative spirit that defined his time in orbit.
In his address, Shukla captured the spirit of a new India as seen from the vantage point of space. “Today, India looks ambitious from space, fearless, confident, and proud. India is still saare jahan se accha,” he declared, referencing the iconic patriotic song that has inspired generations.
Shux described his mission as an “incredible journey” and emphasised that while his personal chapter in space exploration is ending, the journey of the Indian space agency is just beginning. “If we come together, it is attainable,” he said, urging continued unity and collaboration for future achievements.
CELEBRATING SCIENCE, COLLABORATION AND CAMARADERIE
Reflecting on his time aboard the ISS, Shukla expressed deep gratitude to the people who made the mission possible. “It has been made incredible by people on the space station. It was a joy to be working with professionals like you,” he said, acknowledging both his Indian and international colleagues.
He highlighted the mission’s scientific achievements, outreach efforts, and the sense of wonder that comes from viewing Earth from orbit. “We have done a lot of science, outreach, and always looked out on Earth-it seems magical to me,” Shukla noted.
Shukla also thanked ISRO for its vision and support, the researchers and students who contributed to the mission’s experiments, and NASA for their training and logistical support. “These missions have far-reaching implications beyond science and will also boost our countries,” he added.
THE POWER OF GLOBAL UNITY
Shukla’s sentiments were echoed by fellow astronauts. Peggy Whitson, Ax-4 commander, praised the camaraderie and teaching spirit that the ISS team extended to the Ax-4 crew.
Hungarian astronaut Tibor Kapu spoke emotionally: “We came with a purpose and made a lot of things happen-science, amazing pictures of Earth, funny videos, and made a lot of people proud on the ground. We made friends in space, shared inside jokes, and I can say we made it and did it. We were able to do it because we are people collaborating in space in the name of science. It was a great mission.”
