Thu Jul 17 05:20:07 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the text, formatted for readability:
**Headline: Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla Returns from ISS, Begins Rehabilitation**
**Houston, Texas – July 17, 2025:** Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut to visit the International Space Station (ISS), has successfully returned to Earth and is currently undergoing a week-long rehabilitation program in Houston. His return marks the end of his 18-day mission as part of Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4).
Shukla and his crewmates, Commander Peggy Whitson of the U.S., Mission Specialist Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland, and Mission Specialist Tibor Kapu of Hungary, splashed down off the coast of San Diego on July 15th aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft.
According to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), initial health assessments indicated that Shukla was in stable condition upon extraction from the spacecraft. Following preliminary checks on the recovery ship, he was transported to the mainland and then flown to Houston for a specialized rehabilitation program designed to mitigate the effects of microgravity.
“The rehabilitation program includes a series of medical checks, especially cardiovascular assessments, musculoskeletal tests, and psychological debriefing,” ISRO stated. “The activities focus on monitoring physical and mental health, addressing any effects of microgravity, and preparing him for a return to normal activities.” Both Axiom’s flight surgeon and ISRO’s flight surgeon are participating in the program.
A heartwarming image shared via Instagram showed Shukla reunited with his wife, Kamna, shortly after his arrival in Houston. He also met his son.
During their time on the ISS, the Ax-4 crew completed over 60 research activities and 23 outreach events. Shukla’s mission is considered a significant milestone for India’s space program and a source of national pride.
His journey and recovery are being closely monitored by ISRO and the global space community.
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