Shubhanshu Shukla's return from space: 21-hour journey ahead for Axiom-4 crew

The AX-4 mission, one of the most research-intensive private astronaut missions, is preparing for its return to Earth. The four-member crew, including an Indian astronaut, is set to undock from the International Space Station at 4:30 PM. The Dragon spacecraft will autonomously navigate a 21-hour journey before splashing down. The mission conducted 60 experiments from 31 countries, with India contributing seven. These experiments range from growing sprouts in space to studying bone and muscle loss in zero gravity. The mission's outcomes are expected to significantly contribute to India's Gaganyaan program and future space exploration efforts.