New Delhi: Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla officially became the 634th person to travel into space as he entered the International Space Station (ISS) on Thursday, following a 28-hour journey. Shukla was greeted with warm hugs and handshakes by the members of Expedition 73, marking the beginning of his 14-day mission aboard the orbiting laboratory.

As part of a formal welcome, Axiom mission commander Peggy Whitson handed out astronaut pins to Shukla and fellow first-time astronauts — Polish astronaut Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski and Hungarian astronaut Tibor Kapu. All three are on their maiden voyages to space.

“I am astronaut 634. It is a privilege to be here,” Shukla remarked during the welcome ceremony.

Addressing challenges in microgravity

Sharing his early experiences on the ISS, Shukla said, “With your love and blessings, I have reached the International Space Station. It looks easy to stand here, but my head is a little heavy, facing some difficulty; but these are minor issues.”

“We will get used to it. This is the first step of this journey,” he added, indicating his gradual adaptation to the microgravity environment.

A mission for science and connection

Looking ahead to the days to come, Shukla noted, “Over the next 14 days, we will conduct scientific experiments and interact with people on Earth.”

He added, “This is also a phase of India's space journey. I will keep talking to you. Let us make this journey exciting. I am carrying the tiranga and I am carrying all of you with me. The next 14 days will be exciting.”

Gratitude and optimism

Reflecting on his arrival, Shukla expressed gratitude for the hospitality received aboard the ISS.

“The minute I entered the International Space Station and met this crew, you just made me feel so welcome, as if you literally opened your doors, like your house doors, for us,” he said.

“That is true. It was fantastic. I just feel even better now. Whatever expectations I had of coming here were surpassed by the view, of course, that is a big part of it, but also by you guys,” he added.

Concluding on a hopeful note, Shukla said, “So thank you so much. I think this is fantastic, this is wonderful and I am very confident that the next 14 days are going to be amazing, advancing science and research, and working together.”