Not Random: Why the Ax-4 Crew Landed in California

California is home to SpaceX’s key recovery operations. Its proximity allows quick retrieval of the Crew Dragon capsule and crew

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The Pacific Ocean near San Diego offers calm waters and favorable weather—perfect for a controlled and safe splashdown

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California is strategically close to SpaceX and NASA support teams, ensuring fast medical checks and debriefs post-landing

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The Earth’s rotation and ISS orbit made California the best landing corridor for re-entry at that moment

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Several Crew Dragon missions have splashed down here before—making it a tried-and-tested recovery zone

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Shubhanshu’s splashdown wasn’t random—it was backed by science, safety, and logistics. A perfect end to a landmark journey

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