In a historic moment for India’s space exploration, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla launched into space on June 25, 2025. He boarded SpaceX’s Crew Dragon as part of the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4). The launch took place at 12:01 PM IST from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Shukla is now the second Indian to travel to space, following Rakesh Sharma. However, he is the first Indian astronaut to reach the International Space Station (ISS).
The Ax-4 mission is a major milestone for India. It marks the country’s return to human spaceflight after 41 years. Shukla’s flight is celebrated by citizens and space enthusiasts across India, showcasing the nation’s growing capabilities in space technology.
The Ax-4 mission, informally named Akash Ganga, is a collaborative effort. It includes contributions from ISRO, NASA, SpaceX, Axiom Space, and the European Space Agency (ESA). Shukla serves as the pilot of the mission. He is joined by veteran NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson and two other astronauts from Hungary and Poland.
The Crew Dragon spacecraft is set to dock with the ISS on June 26 at around 4:30 PM IST. During their two-week stay in orbit, the crew will conduct scientific research and educational outreach initiatives. This mission is not just a journey; it is a testament to India’s ambition and innovation in space.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and officials from ISRO have praised the mission. They see it as a significant step in India’s space journey, highlighting global partnerships in space exploration. Michael Suffredini, CEO of Axiom Space, stated that this mission symbolizes India’s capabilities and ambitious goals.
Shubhanshu Shukla’s journey is inspirational. He grew up dreaming of space travel, influenced by Rakesh Sharma’s legacy. Despite the absence of an active Indian human spaceflight program for many years, Shukla pursued his dream through hard work and training. He was selected as one of four astronauts for India’s Gaganyaan mission, set to launch in the near future.
In preparation for his mission, Shukla trained at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in Russia. He has over 2,000 flight hours as a fighter pilot in the Indian Air Force. His experience and training are critical for the success of the Ax-4 mission.
The Crew Dragon spacecraft is designed to transport astronauts safely. It features advanced life-support systems and can autonomously dock with the ISS. Shukla and his team will perform over 60 scientific experiments during their time on the ISS, including joint projects with NASA and initiatives led by Indian researchers.
The Falcon 9 rocket, which launched Shukla and his crew, is known for its reliability and cost-effective reusability. It has a successful track record in transporting astronauts to space. The Ax-4 mission reflects the increasing role of commercial spaceflight in global space exploration.
As Shubhanshu Shukla embarks on this extraordinary journey, he represents not just his country but also the dreams of countless individuals aspiring to explore the stars. His mission is a symbol of courage, excellence, and international cooperation in space. This landmark event will inspire future generations to reach for the stars and pursue their own dreams of space exploration.
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