The Axiom-4 mission marks a significant moment for Indian space exploration as 41 years after Rakesh Sharma's historic flight, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla joins an international crew aboard the ISS, and aims to further India's human space program.
India Celebrates Its Return to Space with Axiom-4 Mission
India Celebrates Its Return to Space with Axiom-4 Mission
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla makes history as India's second astronaut in space in over four decades.
The excitement in India is palpable following the successful launch of the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission, which features a multinational crew that includes Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla. Set to become the first Indian to visit the International Space Station (ISS), Shukla’s journey represents India’s resurgence in manned spaceflight 41 years after Rakesh Sharma made his pioneering trip aboard a Russian spacecraft in 1984.
The Ax-4 mission took off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 02:31 EDT (06:31 GMT; 12:01 India time) on Wednesday, led by former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, a veteran with two commands of the ISS and over 675 days in space. Along with Shukla, the mission includes Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary, both of whom are also marking their countries' returns to space after long hiatuses.
Upon liftoff, Shukla expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "We're back in space after 41 years and what an amazing ride it's been." With the ambitious goal of advancing India's capabilities in space travel, this mission signals a significant chapter for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), especially as the country prepares for its first human spaceflight planned for 2027 and aims for a space station by 2035.
During his 14-day mission aboard the ISS, Shukla will engage in a series of scientific experiments, which includes seven initiatives developed by ISRO focusing on biological and microgravity-related challenges. The astronaut’s schedule will also feature interactions with students in India and a planned discussion with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. As he carries with him an Indian flag, Shukla holds the hopes and aspirations of a nation, embodying the spirit of exploration and discovery.
Prime Minister Modi congratulated the team and declared this mission a vital step for India, emphasizing the pride and support of its 1.4 billion citizens. The tone of elation and anticipation resonates throughout the nation, marking a momentous milestone in India's space narrative as Group Captain Shukhla seeks to inspire a new generation of explorers and innovators.
