India’s Shubhanshu Shukla Joins Axiom-4 Crew for Historic ISS Mission
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has etched his name in history as the second Indian astronaut to venture into space, lifting off on the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station
The Axiom-4 mission, a groundbreaking private spaceflight, launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, carrying Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force. Shukla has become the second Indian to venture into space, following Rakesh Sharma’s historic 1984 journey. Joined by astronauts from Poland and Hungary, the crew is en route to the International Space Station (ISS) to conduct approximately 60 scientific experiments, marking a milestone in global space collaboration.
A Historic Launch
Shubhanshu Shukla, a seasoned IAF test pilot, represents India’s growing prowess in space exploration. Over their 14-day stay on the ISS, the crew will focus on advancing scientific knowledge in microgravity.
Shukla’s Trailblazing Journey
Group Captain Shukla’s inclusion in Axiom-4 is a proud moment for India, following Rakesh Sharma’s Soviet-era mission. Trained rigorously for this mission, Shukla will contribute to experiments in fields like biology, materials science, and fluid dynamics. His participation highlights ISRO’s collaboration with international partners and India’s ambition to play a larger role in human spaceflight, especially with the upcoming Gaganyaan program.
Indian Air Force tweets, "From conquering the skies to touching the stars- a journey powered by the indomitable spirit of the IAF Air Warrior. Group Captain Shubahanshu Shukla sets forth on a landmark Space Mission, carrying the pride of the nation beyond Earth. This is a dèjà-vu… pic.twitter.com/XtMQ5w3OzO
— ANI (@ANI) June 25, 2025
Global Collaboration in Space
The 60 experiments planned aboard the ISS aim to address challenges in space travel and benefit life on Earth. From studying human physiology in microgravity to testing new technologies, the mission’s outcomes are expected to drive innovation across industries.
A New Era for Space Exploration
Axiom-4’s success signals the rise of private space missions, democratizing access to space. As the crew embarks on this scientific endeavor, the world watches, anticipating discoveries that will shape the future of humanity’s cosmic journey.
