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What Happens to Poop, Pee & Vomit on the ISS?

July 7, 2025, 6:00 pm

When Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla looks down at Earth from the International Space Station (ISS), he’s bordered by hundreds of quiet challenges of orbital living one of the most basic being waste disposal. Although the idea of drinking water recycled from urine and sweat may seem distasteful on Earth, it’s just business as usual aboard the ISS.

Water is a very precious commodity on the ISS. With no natural water sources in space and only minimal supplies sent from Earth, each drop counts. It’s for this reason NASA has equipped the station with an upgraded Water Recovery System (WRS) that recycles and cleans water from the urine, sweat, and even the moisture the astronauts exhale.

This multi-step technique uses complex filtration, chemical purification, and treatment technologies to make the water completely safe for consumption. Interestingly, NASA regularly points out that water recycled on the ISS is purer than many individuals drink on Earth.

There’s still one line current technology cannot reach, though recycling human feces. While urine is processed into something that can be used, solid waste isn’t.

What Happens to Poop in Space?

Human waste and solid trash are bagged in sealed plastic bags, which are bagged in special trash canisters. The trash canisters are stored in a trash storage compartment on the ISS until they can be jettisoned.

About every 90 to 30 days, a supply spacecraft docks at the station to bring new supplies. Before departing, astronauts fill it with bags of trash, including feces and organic waste. These trash-carrying vessels are deliberately steered to disintegrate upon entry into Earth’s atmosphere, incinerating everything on board long before it would ever have a chance to hit the ground. This incineration is the modern standard for disposing of human waste aboard the ISS.

How Astronauts Handle Vomiting in Microgravity

It’s not easy to adjust to living on-orbit. Most astronauts get space adaptation syndrome which is basically motion sickness in zero gravity particularly on their first few days in space. This illness can lead to nausea, headaches, lethargy, and vomiting.

To address this, astronauts also carry with them specially designed ‘space sickness bags’, or barf bags, that are lined with absorbent to stop leaks and can be sealed tightly when done. Similar to the flushing of feces, these sealed bags are disposed of along with other waste and ultimately loaded onto burn-up cargo ships.

Will Poop Ever be Recyclable?

While feces are now burned to a crisp, NASA is working on recycling it. In efforts such as the Lunar Loo Challenge, NASA has encouraged scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs globally to come up with a system that can convert human waste feces, urine, and vomit into usable resources such as water, energy, or fertilizer.

With a $3 million (approximately Rs 25–26 crore) prize, this challenge hopes to develop sustainable life-support systems essential for long-term occupation of the Moon or Mars, where resupply missions from Earth would be infrequent, and recycling must be used for survival.

Who is Dr Kamna Shukla, Wife of NASA Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla

June 29, 2025, 5:38 pm

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force recently became the first Indian to set foot on the International Space Station (ISS). Blasting off onboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket on June 25 from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida as part of Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), Shukla also became just the second Indian ever to venture into space, after Rakesh Sharma’s historic mission in 1984.

Prior to Shubhanshu’s flight into space, his mother, Asha Shukla, explained how her heart was full of joy and how she was the first to emphasize the key role played by her daughter-in-law. “He has all the support of our daughter-in-law. It could not have been possible without her… She has played the biggest role here,” Asha explained to the press.

About Dr Kamna Shukla

Dr Kamna Shukla, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh-based dentist, is married to Shubhanshu and has a 6-year-old son. They had their love story in primary school, and Kamna is both his lifetime partner and childhood friend.

Talking to The Times of India, Kamna remembered their childhood days, saying, “We’ve studied together since Class 3. We were initially best friends… I know him as Gunjan, as Shubhanshu— the shy, silent boy in class—who’s now become such a role model for so many.”

Their relationship stood the test of prolonged separations and lost milestones, particularly memories from their son’s early years. Kamna was aware of how much those separations hurt but was also at pains to acknowledge Shubhanshu’s consistent commitment, likening it to Arjuna’s single-mindedness from the Mahabharata.

A Message From Shubhanshu

In a moving instagram post prior to leaving on his historic mission, Shubhanshu appreciated all those who stood by him. He said, “Since we shall be leaving the earth early morning of 25 Jun, I would like to thank all those people who have been part of this mission for their encouragement and also to all the people back home for their blessings and love. A great big thank you to my family and friends who have been my rock in this venture. At times your near and dear ones make sacrifices that you yourself do not even realize, but they do it with their love for you.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Shubhanshu Shukla (@gagan.shux)

He had special thanks also for his wife, stating, “Special thanks to @kamnashubha for being the amazing partner that you are. Without you, none of this was possible, but more importantly, none of this would matter. No one goes to space alone…we do so on the shoulders of so many more. I feel thankful to each and every one of you. THANK YOU.”

Shubhanshu Shukla Heads to ISS: Key Milestones in His 28-Hour Space Trip

June 25, 2025, 5:37 pm

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the former Indian Air Force pilot who is now an astronaut, is breaking records as he captains the Axiom-4 mission (Ax-4) to the International Space Station (ISS). The mission launched from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 2:31 AM Eastern Time (12:01 PM IST) on Wednesday, June 25.

Speaking to the nation from the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, Shubhanshu Shukla had a patriotic and emotional message to share

“Namaskar, my dear fellow citizens, what a journey. We are back in space again after 41 years. It’s such an incredible journey. We are orbiting the Earth at a speed of 7.5 kilometres per second. The Tiranga printed on my shoulders reminds me that I am with all of you.”

This is not my start to the International Space Station (ISS) but to India’s human space program. I want all of you to join this journey. Your chest, too, should swell with pride. You all exhibit enthusiasm. Let’s start India’s human space program. Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!

Axiom-4 Launches Successfully After Multiple Delays

The Ax-4 mission, which had been postponed a few times because of weather and technical reasons, ultimately took off on board SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket. Two minutes into the flight, the first stage of the Falcon 9 finished its job and separated from the Dragon capsule safely, starting to make its way back to Earth. Shukla and the three other astronauts on board, however, initiated their 28-hour journey to the ISS.

After liftoff, #Ax4 Commander @AstroPeggy revealed the name of the new @SpaceX Dragon spacecraft headed to the @Space_Station. Meet Grace! https://t.co/wb27kTMwHh pic.twitter.com/7QnyFOfRu7

— Axiom Space (@Axiom_Space) June 25, 2025

Shubhanshu Shukla’s mission is an important milestone, as he is the second Indian astronaut to go to space, after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who went on a Soviet mission in 1984. It took India 41 years to return to crewed spaceflight, but this time with Axiom Space and NASA as partners, providing a timely learning curve for ISRO’s next Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme.

A Musical Journey Through Space

While the Dragon capsule makes its way upward and into orbit, the astronauts have been listening to a unique playlist specially made for the mission. Shubhanshu Shukla chose A.R. Rahman’s “Yun Hi Chala Chal” from Swades as a representation of India’s future journey in space. Other songs are Imagine Dragons’ “Thunder”, a Polish Supermonce song, and a Hungarian Bvhely tune.

The 28-hour flight to the ISS is not a straight course. The Dragon spacecraft has to go through a series of well-planned phasing maneuvers to match its trajectory with the ISS orbit. These involve meticulous orbital calculations, GPS coordinates, radar coordination, and sensor information to make it perfect in execution.

Space analysts observe that the spacecraft will stop at a number of important waypoints along the approach. At 20 meters from the ISS, the Dragon will initiate final docking, aiming for the Harmony module.

Two-Phase Docking: Magnetic to Mechanical

Docking happens in two distinct phases

Soft Capture: Magnetic sensors slowly bring the capsule into place.
Hard Capture: Hooks and latches form a pressure-tight fit between the Dragon and the ISS.

The spacecraft spends up to two hours stabilizing and checking safety once it is docked. It is only after this operation that the Axiom-4 crew will open the hatch and enter the ISS, kicking off their 14-day mission.

Shukla’s Mission to Advance Indian Space Science

In the next fortnight, Shukla and his global crewmates will execute 60 experiments. Of these, seven have been conceptualized by Indian scientists. These experiments will form the cornerstone for India’s future ambitions in human space exploration, particularly under the Gaganyaan programme.

Shukla’s journey on the ISS is symbolic of more than just a youthful spirit—it’s a new beginning for India’s space plans, with international collaboration married to domestic pride.

‘Tricolour on My Shoulders’: Shubhanshu Shukla’s First Message From Space

June 25, 2025, 2:17 pm

Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla became history on Wednesday as he traveled to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard the Axiom-4 commercial space flight. The spacecraft took off at 12:01 pm IST from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, and Shukla was the first Indian astronaut to travel to the ISS; 41 years since Rakesh Sharma’s flight in 1984.

Shukla’s First Message from Space

Not long after the successful liftoff and stage separation, Shukla gave his first message from space, informing the world of the progress of the mission. “Namaskar, dear countrymen, we have entered space after 41 years. It was a wonderful ride,” he announced about ten minutes into the flight.

He further stated that the spacecraft was revolving around the planet at a mind-boggling rate. We are going around the Earth at 7.5 km per second. I have the Indian tricolour on my back,” he stated from onboard SpaceX’s Dragon capsule.

Looking back at the emotional and national importance of the moment, Shukla went on, “Tricolour reminds me that I am with all of you. It’s not only the beginning of my mission to the International Space Station, but of India’s human spaceflight.

Calling upon fellow citizens to be a part of this momentous movement, he stated, “I want each one of you to be part of this journey. Let us embark on India’s human space programme together.”

Crew and Launch Details

Shukla is joined on this mission by three foreign crew members: veteran NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, who is leading the mission as commander, Poland’s Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski, and Hungary’s Tibor Kapu. The Axiom-4 mission is a historic milestone not just for India, but also for Poland and Hungary, whose astronauts will be going back to space after generations.

The launch also prompted parties worldwide, with watch parties being held in numerous locations—among them one at Shukla’s alma mater, City Montessori School in Lucknow, where his parents celebrated the blast-off with teachers and students.

Docking Schedule

As per NASA, the team will dock at the International Space Station at approximately 4:30 pm IST on Thursday, June 26. The mission is a part of Axiom Space’s growing commercial program to transport international astronauts to low Earth orbit.

Shukla’s achievement marks India’s re-entry into spaceflight on the international stage, marking a new chapter for Indian astronauts and paving the way for ISRO’s future Gaganyaan mission.

Shubhanshu Shukla’s Parents Watch Proudly As he Lifts Off Into Space | VIDEO

June 25, 2025, 1:47 pm

Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla made history on Wednesday when he set off on a mission to the International Space Station (ISS) with three other astronauts. The flight was launched from Launch Complex 39A of NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

Family Watches from Lucknow

In India, Shukla’s parents, Shambhu Dayal and Asha Shukla, were watching the historic moment from his alma mater in Lucknow with other teachers and students. The school had organized a live telecast on an LED screen, making the event a proud celebration of their erstwhile student’s phenomenal achievement.

As observed in photos distributed by ANI, the two parents were clearly emotional, a combination of pride and happiness as they watched their son shoot into space.

Watch:

#WATCH | Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh: Parents of IAF Group Captain & astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, celebrate as #Axiom4Mission lifts off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre in Florida, US.

The mission is being piloted by India’s IAF Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla. pic.twitter.com/SeRGTUiQeV

— ANI (@ANI) June 25, 2025

Before the liftoff, Shukla’s mother Asha Shukla expressed herself, “We cannot put this into words…We are not afraid for Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla in the least…We are glad, we are very proud,” she said, reflecting the pride and resilience that characterize the family’s backing.

His dad, Shambhu Dayal, also spoke to a great deal of pride and enthusiasm, “His mission is scheduled to take off at about 12 noon IST. We are very enthusiastic to witness his mission take off. We are thrilled. Our wishes are with him, and we pray to God for his mission to be successfully accomplished too… He is totally geared up… It is wonderful to see all the posters that have been erected for him…He is fetching laurels for Lucknow, for the state and for our country…We are proud of him.”

Who Is Shubhanshu Shukla?

Born in Lucknow in 1986, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is a seasoned fighter pilot serving in the Indian Air Force. Commissioned in the Air Force in 2006 after graduating from the elite National Defence Academy (NDA), he has flown thousands of hours of high-performance jets.

One of the few chosen astronauts to be part of ISRO’s next Gaganyaan mission in 2027, Shukla received exhaustive astronaut training in Russia and the United States. He was trained in orbital mechanics, emergency procedures, and scientific experimentation in microgravity. Shukla is widely known for his composed demeanor and technical expertise, representing the new breed of Indian space explorers.

About the Axiom-4 Mission

The Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission is the fourth commercial astronaut mission to the ISS, sponsored by Axiom Space. The mission launched on board SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft, launched into space by a Falcon 9 rocket from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.

The mission is commanded by commander Peggy Whitson, a retired NASA astronaut and current central figure at Axiom Space. The global crew comprises mission specialists Slawosz Uznanski of Poland (on behalf of the European Space Agency) and Tibor Kapu of Hungary. Group Captain Shukla is the mission’s pilot, an essential role demanding accuracy, leadership, and technical skill.

Axiom-4 Mission: Meet Crew Members Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski and Tibor Kapu

June 25, 2025, 1:13 pm

Four space travelers are set to blast off on a commercial mission to the International Space Station (ISS) early Wednesday, June 25, as part of Axiom Space’s fourth human spaceflight mission. They will journey inside a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft atop a Falcon 9 rocket, which is to launch at 2:31 am Eastern Time from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

The mission crew comprises of India’s Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, Poland’s Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski, and Hungary’s Tibor Kapu. The mission will be led by Peggy Whitson, an experienced astronaut and the head of human spaceflight at Axiom Space.

Who is Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski?

Dr. Uznanski-Wisniewski is an engineer as well as a scientist who has worked at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva. He had worked as an engineer at the Large Hadron Collider and joins the Axiom-4 flight as a mission specialist.

According to Axiom Space, “Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, Poland, is a scientist and engineer who is significantly contributing to the sciences and space exploration. He is a member of the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Astronaut Reserve Class of 2022 who rose from a highly competitive group of more than 22,500 candidates who were vying for a spot for potential future missions aboard the International Space Station (ISS) and beyond.”

His educational career began in Łódź, Poland, where he received his M.Sc. with distinction from Łódź University of Technology in 2008. In the same year, he received a second M.Sc. degree from Université de Nantes in France and a Diplôme d’Ingénieur from Polytech’Nantes. He went on to receive his Ph.D. in 2011 from the University of Aix-Marseille in the field of radiation-hardened design for space technology.

Uznanski-Wisniewski’s career at CERN also saw him take on roles such as project lead and reliability expert. Between 2018 and 2020, he held the critical position of Engineer in Charge of the Large Hadron Collider.

Who is Tibor Kapu?

Tibor Kapu, also a mission specialist on Axiom-4, is a mechanical engineer with a multidisciplinary background that spans the pharmaceutical, logistics, automotive, and aerospace sectors.

As stated by Axiom Space, “Kapu learned his initial education at Gyula Krúdy High School in Nyíregyháza. He then graduated from the Budapest University of Technology and Economics, where he acquired a mechanical engineering degree and then a master’s in polymer technology.”. His repertoire goes beyond books because he worked in the pharmaceutical and logistical sectors, and hybrid car battery development in the automotive sector throughout his professional life. He also worked in Belgium and the United States, where he developed his skills further in emerging technologies such as nanotechnology and brain science.

Over the last few years, Kapu devoted his research to aerospace technology and, more precisely, the shielding of space radiation. This activity lasted until his recruitment in 2023 for Hungary’s HUNOR (Hungarian to Orbit) Astronaut Program, through which he was selected from among 247 candidates.

“This high-profile program is designed to launch a Hungarian astronaut into space, facilitating world-class scientific experiments and tests on board the International Space Station (ISS),” the website of Axiom Space states. For his training, Kapu had to pass through intense physical and mental tests, such as flying aircraft, simulating space conditions, and studying space health, engineering, and history. He was also an active participant in scientific experiments ahead of his mission.

Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla Pens Heartfelt Note to Wife Ahead of Space Mission

June 25, 2025, 11:41 am

With the countdown starting for the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS), Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla from Lucknow is ready to make history as the first Indian astronaut to travel to the ISS. The mission, comprising three other astronauts, is now booked to blast off at 12:01 pm IST on Wednesday from Launch Complex 39A of NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The launch, which was originally slated for June 22, was shifted to a new time window of 2:31 am EDT (12 noon IST) on June 25.

Emotional Message to Wife Kamna

Before his spaceflight, Shukla posted a profoundly emotional message on Instagram, thanking all those who were a part of the mission and especially his wife.

“Since we are going to depart the planet early morning of 25 Jun, I want to thank everyone who has participated in this mission for standing by me and also to all the individuals back home for their love and blessings,” he said.

He continued to say, “Special thanks to Kamna for being the great partner that you are. Without you none of this was possible but more importantly none of this would matter.” The emotional post had an image of the couple saying goodbye through a glass wall.

Bond That Began in School

Shubhanshu and Kamna’s journey began in their childhood. According to a Times of India report, the two met in primary school in Lucknow and have remained close ever since.

“We’ve studied together since Class 3. We’ve been best friends. I’ve known him as Gunjan, as Shubhanshu, the shy guy in our classroom who’s now inspiring so many people,” said Kamna. The couple shares a six-year-old son.

Family’s Pride and Support

Shukla’s mother, Asha Shukla, also shared the contribution Kamna has made to her son’s journey to space. She emphasized the big hand Kamna has extended to her son at every stage.

“It’s a moment of pride for us and everybody else. Posters are going up all over the place. Everybody is thrilled that a person from this country, from this Triveni Nagar, is going to fly so high. We are sending all our good wishes and blessings to him. He has all the love of our daughter-in-law. This would not have been possible without her. She has had the biggest role here,” Asha said.

As the world looks on, Shubhanshu Shukla’s coming journey is not just a national milestone but a profoundly intimate moment of love, partnership, and mutual dreams.

Axiom-4 Mission: Will the Weather Cooperate for Liftoff? Here’s the Forecast

June 25, 2025, 10:21 am

Indian Air Force Group Captain and ISRO astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla is ready to go on his first space flight as part of the Axiom-4 mission (Ax-4). The mission will liftoff to the International Space Station (ISS) on Wednesday. SpaceX affirmed that conditions are 90% ripe for liftoff, a big step forward following the mission experiencing several delays.

All systems go for Wednesday’s liftoff of @Axiom_Space’s Ax-4 mission to the @Space_Station and weather at 90% favorable for launch,” SpaceX tweeted on X.

All systems are looking good for Wednesday’s launch of @Axiom_Space’s Ax-4 mission to the @Space_Station and weather is 90% favorable for liftoff. Webcast starts at 12:30 a.m. ET → https://t.co/6RXoybzInV pic.twitter.com/988o685PVF

— SpaceX (@SpaceX) June 24, 2025

The launch, as per NASA, is scheduled for 12:01 PM IST. It will take place from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The Ax-4 crew will fly onboard a new SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, launched into orbit by the company’s Falcon 9 rocket. The docking at the ISS is to be done around 4:30 PM IST on Thursday, June 26, NASA said.

Axiom-4 Crew Headed by Peggy Whitson, Commanded by Shubhanshu Shukla

The Ax-4 mission will be commanded by Peggy Whitson, a retired NASA astronaut and Axiom Space Director of Human Spaceflight. The pilot will be Shubhanshu Shukla, the first ISRO astronaut to travel to the ISS under a commercial agreement.

They are accompanied by two mission specialists. Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland represents the European Space Agency (ESA), and Tibor Kapu of Hungary is part of the HUNOR (Hungarian to Orbit) program.

Several Delays Addressed, Launch Greenlit Following Repairs

The Ax-4 mission had several delays, first because of weather conditions and then due to technical matters. Leaks were discovered in SpaceX’s Falcon-9 rocket and the Russian Zvezda module of the ISS.

NASA affirmed that after extended repair and inspection, including consultations with Roscosmos, the mission was greenlit to go ahead.

“NASA and Roscosmos have cooperated and worked together on the International Space Station over many years. This professional working relationship has permitted the agencies to come to a consensus on a technical approach, and now Axiom Mission 4 launch and docking will go forward,” said Acting NASA Administrator Janet Petro.

India-US Partnership and Science Goals

The mission is therefore a milestone in India-US space cooperation, stemming from the commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former U.S. President Donald Trump to send an ISRO astronaut to the ISS for the first time.

As part of the collaboration, NASA and ISRO are engaged in five collaborative science investigations and two STEM education demonstrations during the mission.

After docking, the crew of Ax-4 will stay for two weeks on board the ISS. During this time, they will conduct experiments, engage in outreach, and carry out commercial activities. These efforts will enhance India’s capabilities for subsequent human spaceflight missions such as Gaganyaan.

Axiom-4 Mission with Shubhanshu Shukla Delayed by NASA for Sixth Time

June 20, 2025, 9:04 am

NASA has postponed the Axiom-4 mission launch to the International Space Station (ISS). The mission includes Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla among its four crew members. The launch, planned for Sunday, June 22, will now happen later. NASA will announce the new date soon.

NASA Explains the Delay

On Thursday, Axiom Space said, “NASA has made the decision to stand down from a launch on Sunday, June 22, and will target a new launch date in the coming days.”

The statement added, “Because of the space station’s interconnected and interdependent systems, NASA wants to ensure the station is ready for additional crew members, and the agency is taking the time necessary to review data.”

Sixth Postponement for the Mission

This marks the sixth delay for the Axiom-4 mission. NASA first scheduled the launch for May 29. Then, it moved to June 8, June 10, June 11, June 19, June 22, and now an undefined later date.

.@NASA, @Axiom_Space, and @SpaceX continue reviewing launch opportunities for Axiom Mission 4. NASA is standing down from a launch on Sunday, June 22, and will target a new launch date in the coming days. https://t.co/GKAvaAd4UH

— International Space Station (@Space_Station) June 19, 2025

Multiple Issues Caused Delays

Earlier delays happened because of several problems. The Falcon 9 rocket was not ready on time. Bad weather caused trouble. NASA found a leak in the liquid oxygen system. There was also a technical fault in the space station’s service module.

A Mission Important to Several Countries

The Axiom-4 mission brings astronauts from India, Hungary, and Poland back to space. SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket will launch them from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

A Special Moment for India

This mission is very important for India. Shubhanshu Shukla will become the second Indian astronaut in space after Rakesh Sharma, who flew in 1984. Shukla joins Axiom Space’s fourth private astronaut mission. This mission also shows India’s growing space partnership with NASA.

NASA Confirms New Launch Time for Axiom-4 Mission with India’s Shubhanshu Shukla

June 19, 2025, 2:06 pm

Following several postponements due to technical malfunctions and inclement weather, Axiom Space’s Ax-4 mission is finally on its way to carrying Indian Air Force test pilot and ISRO astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to the International Space Station (ISS).

Launch has now been scheduled for June 22 at 1:12 pm IST from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida aboard SpaceX Dragon spacecraft.

The Ax-4 mission itself was originally set for May 29, 2025, but was beset by a chain of delays. The launch was initially delayed to June 8 due to electrical harness concerns with the Crew Dragon.

Additional delays came on June 9 due to readiness issues with the Falcon 9 rocket, and June 10 due to adverse weather in the ascent corridor.

Pre-launch tests on June 8 also revealed an oxygen leak and an actuator problem, which needed parts to be replaced before rescheduling to June 11. A last-minute delay happened on June 12 due to a pressure leak in the ISS.

The space agency, NASA, indicates that the recent shift in launch timing provides for continued operations and repair analysis aboard the station to continue. “It is not unusual for the agency and its global partners to make changes to launches based on shifting operations on board the space station,” NASA said.

“Teams are making headway on assessing the transfer tunnel configuration, leading to a new launch opportunity for the private astronaut mission,” according to NASA.

The Ax-4 mission, which is commanded by Axiom Space, will be commanded by Axiom’s director of human spaceflight and former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson.

The mission pilot will be Shubhanshu Shukla. Joining them is European Space Agency astronaut Sawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski from Poland and Tibor Kapu from Hungary, who will be mission specialists.

The four astronauts are in quarantine as they prepare for the trip.

For the mission, the Ax-4 crew will conduct 60 scientific experiments under microgravity. Seven of these are being conducted by Shubhanshu Shukla on behalf of India and are aimed at material science, human physiology, and future communication systems.

With the new launch date set, preparations for this ambitious commercial mission are in their final stages.

Shubhanshu Shukla to Lift Off for ISS on June 19 Under Axiom-4 Mission: ISRO

June 14, 2025, 1:08 pm

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla is currently set to blast off into space on June 19, bound for the International Space Station (ISS) aboard the Axiom-4 commercial mission, confirmed the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Saturday.

Originally scheduled to depart on May 29, the mission faced several delays as SpaceX and NASA addressed technical malfunctions, including a liquid oxygen leak in the Falcon 9 rocket and a leak in the ISS’s Russian module.

“NASA announced Thursday that it was investigating a leak on board the ISS’s Russian module,” the report said.

ISRO is working closely with @Axiom_Space, @NASA, @SpaceX as they responsibly address the ISS Zvezda module observation causing the Ax‑4 delay. Safety and mission integrity remain our top priorities.

With regards
Dr. V.Narayanan
Secretary DOS/
Chairman ISRO & Chairman Space…

— ISRO (@isro) June 12, 2025

SpaceX first pushed the launch date to June 8, then delayed it further to June 10, and again to June 11, before finally confirming June 19 as the launch date. SpaceX, which is launching both the rocket and the space capsule, found a leak of liquid oxygen in the Falcon-9 rocket and thus had to delay.

Shubhanshu Shukla, who is ISRO’s representative, will be the pilot for the mission. Former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, current director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, will command the flight.

Completing the crew as mission specialists are Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland, a project astronaut with the European Space Agency (ESA), and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.

The mission is another major milestone for India’s presence in human spaceflight as Shukla becomes one of the limited number of Indian astronauts to fly towards the ISS. Axiom-4 is under Axiom Space’s commercial missions to move forward with international cooperation and private-sector involvement in space travel.

All systems now go for liftoff. The mission will go ahead without delay on June 19, in a new era for India’s space program.