On June 25, 2025, Shubhanshu Shukla launched into space, marking a historic moment for India. He is only the second Indian to travel to space, following Rakesh Sharma’s mission in 1984. This time, Shukla is the first Indian astronaut to head for the International Space Station (ISS).
Shubhanshu Shukla was born in 1985, a year after Sharma’s landmark flight. He grew up dreaming of the stars. Now, as a Group Captain in the Indian Air Force, his dream has come true aboard SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft. The launch took place from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
The Ax-4 mission includes three other astronauts from Hungary, Poland, and the United States. Together, they will live and conduct research aboard the ISS. The launch was powerful, with the Falcon 9 rocket lifting off into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The mission’s beginning was marked by a roaring launch as the spacecraft ascended into the sky.
Unfortunately, the launch faced several delays. Originally scheduled for May 29, the mission was postponed due to technical issues and bad weather. After seven delays, the team finally launched, showing the determination of SpaceX, Axiom Space, NASA, and ISRO to make it happen.
Mission Commander Peggy Whitson expressed optimism despite the setbacks, stating, “Setbacks and delays are a normal part of spaceflight. Our Ax-4 crew remains upbeat and looking forward to a safe and successful flight.”
Shubhanshu Shukla, also known as “Shux” by his crewmates, is responsible for monitoring the spacecraft’s path and dynamics during the journey to the ISS. He is a skilled test pilot with experience in various aircraft, contributing significantly to the mission’s success.
Joining Shukla in this historical mission is Dr. Peggy Whitson, a prominent American astronaut with 675 days in space. She leads the crew, sharing her extensive experience. The mission specialists are Sawosz Uznanski from Poland and Tibor Kapu from Hungary. Uznanski is focused on microgravity experiments, while Kapu brings expertise in radiation shielding and polymer technology.
Once aboard the ISS, Shukla will conduct seven experiments designed by Indian scientists. These studies will explore biology, food, medicine, and mental health in microgravity. Some experiments involve growing Indian superfoods like moong and methi. Others will examine the behaviour of microbes in space and the impact of space on mental health.
The Ax-4 mission is vital for India. It provides Shukla with practical experience that will benefit India’s own Gaganyaan mission, set to launch soon. The knowledge gained from this mission will help prepare future astronauts for long-duration missions. Shukla’s journey is not just about his individual success; it represents the hopes and aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians.
As he embarks on this 14-day journey, Shukla carries the Indian tricolour, symbolising a nation’s pride and ambition. His flight signifies a new chapter in India’s space exploration, inspiring future generations to reach for the stars.
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