Shux vs. Rakesh: Why One Astronaut Splashed Down, the Other Landed on Solid Ground

Indian astronauts have made their mark on history, but their journeys back to Earth have differed dramatically. Shubhanshu Shukla, affectionately known as “Shux,” splashed down in the ocean, while Rakesh Sharma, India’s first astronaut, landed on solid ground. What’s the reason behind this intriguing difference?

The Science Behind the Splashdown

Shux’s return from space involved a splashdown in the ocean, a common practice for spacecraft like the SpaceX Dragon. This method utilizes the vastness and cushioning effect of the ocean to slow down the spacecraft upon re-entry, mitigating the impact on the astronauts inside.

Advantages of Splashdown:

• Reduced stress on the spacecraft structure.
• Simplified landing procedures compared to pinpoint land landings.
• Immediate access to recovery teams positioned in the ocean.

A Touchdown on Terra Firma

In contrast, Rakesh Sharma’s historic mission concluded with a landing on land, facilitated by the Soyuz spacecraft. This method employs parachutes and retro-rockets to decelerate the spacecraft for a controlled touchdown on a designated landing site.

Advantages of Land Landing:

• Faster access to post-flight medical checks and research materials.
• Less risk of saltwater corrosion to the spacecraft.
• Potential for landing closer to mission control centers.

Different Missions, Different Methods

Ultimately, the choice between splashdown and land landing depends on various factors, including the spacecraft’s design, mission objectives, and landing site accessibility. Both methods have proven successful in bringing astronauts safely back to Earth, highlighting the ingenuity and adaptability of space exploration technology.