Shubhanshu Shukla Shares Recovery Video After Historic ISS Mission
India’s first ISS astronaut under quarantine till July 23; video shows post-space physical challenges
Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut to travel to the International Space Station (ISS), has released a heartfelt video documenting his physical recovery following his return to Earth after an 18-day mission in microgravity.
The 39-year-old Indian Air Force officer and test pilot orbited the Earth more than 310 times during the historic mission, covering a staggering 1.3 crore kilometers. His journey marks a significant milestone for India’s growing presence in global space exploration.
In the emotional video shared online, Shukla is seen struggling to walk unassisted, visibly unsteady on his feet as two individuals help him take his first steps back on Earth. A second segment shows him on a treadmill, part of his ongoing physical rehabilitation to rebuild muscle strength and balance impacted by prolonged weightlessness.
“I have received a lot of messages regarding my health and wishing me a speedy recovery. I want to thank you all and also give an update,” Shukla wrote in the caption, acknowledging the overwhelming public support.
According to an official statement quoting Union Minister Jitendra Singh, Shukla and the three other astronauts from the mission are currently under quarantine and will remain so until July 23 to complete medical evaluations and re-adaptation protocols. The quarantine is part of standard post-mission care aimed at closely monitoring their health and easing their return to Earth’s gravity.
The video offers a rare and personal glimpse into the physical toll of space travel, drawing attention to the human side of space exploration. Experts note that prolonged exposure to microgravity can lead to muscle atrophy, bone loss, and coordination challenges—making post-flight rehabilitation critical.
Shukla’s mission and his candid recovery story have captured the imagination of the public, highlighting both the scientific achievement and the resilience required of space travelers.
