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How Axiom 4 Astronauts See Earth: Blue and White Jewel From Space

June 28, 2025, 5:00 pm

Peggy Whitson, one of the four astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) for the Axiom-4 mission, recently took to social media to share a breathtaking image of Earth. Captioning the post, she wrote, “I’ve missed the view.”

After their arrival, the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) crew members including Whitson, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, Slawosz Uznanski, and Tibor Kapu spent their first couple of hours getting accustomed to life on board the space laboratory. The seven-member “Expedition 73” crew assisted them through different systems and assisted them in preparing for future microgravity research.

As stated by Axiom Space, the crew initiated adaptation to microgravity life, working with the Expedition 73 crewmembers on handover procedures and emergency procedures in order to ensure seamless operations. They also transferred essential cargo and safety gear from the Dragon spacecraft to space station.

I’ve missed this view! #Ax4 pic.twitter.com/BEj1rSE7Yc

— Peggy Whitson (@AstroPeggy) June 27, 2025

On Friday, Whitson and her crew quickly started offloading scientific equipment and freezers loaded with samples from within Dragon. Those were installed on station incubators and refrigerators in anticipation of future experiments. As is the usual procedure for visiting spacecraft, station safety gear was temporarily relocated into Dragon.

Once docked, the Ax-4 crew members prepared their sleeping areas: Whitson slept in the ‘Airlock’, Shukla occupied ‘Dragon’, Uznanski in ‘Columbus’, and Kapu slept in the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM). They also began to install equipment for research activities, transferring samples into other modules to prepare for extensive analysis.

Day one for Group Captain Shukla was spent in redeveloping his new accommodations by transferring cargo from the Grace capsule into the ISS. His second day was to begin with experimental installations.

About the Axiom-4 Mission

Axiom-4 mission is the fourth private astronaut trip to the ISS. It was launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on a SpaceX Dragon capsule on a Falcon 9 rocket. The commander of the mission is Whitson, a retired NASA astronaut now working for Axiom Space. Uznanski of Poland (representing the European Space Agency) and Kapu of Hungary are the mission specialists on board, and Shukla is the mission pilot in the key role.

Floating in Space, Shubhanshu Shukla Sees Earth Like Never Before

June 28, 2025, 4:42 pm

Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is currently on the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission, getting accustomed to the specific demands of living in microgravity. With 16 sunrises and 16 sunsets daily, Shukla orbits the planet, settling into his short-term space home and getting down to work.

During his first day on board, Shubhanshu Shukla transferred cargo from the Grace capsule (Dragon) to the ISS, set up his habitation space, and interacted with Space-11—the term used for the eleven-member combined crew on board. Reports say he is doing well and actively participating in routine operations.

Astronaut Peggy Whitson, who is also part of the Ax-4 crew, shared a stunning view of Earth from space on X, writing, “I’ve missed the view.”

I’ve missed this view! #Ax4 pic.twitter.com/BEj1rSE7Yc

— Peggy Whitson (@AstroPeggy) June 27, 2025

Training, Safety, and Scientific Readiness

According to Axiom Space, the crew quickly began adjusting to life in zero gravity, focusing on integration with the Expedition 73 team. The combined crew undertook handover training, emergency procedure reviews, and safety briefings to ensure coordination and preparedness.

As part of their initial tasks, the Ax-4 crew loaded high-priority payloads, critical resources, and safety equipment from Dragon to the ISS. Moreover, NASA reported that the crew offloaded hardware loaded with experimental samples and portable science freezers and installed them into station incubators and research refrigerators.

In addition, the astronauts initiated preparation for their science research and technology demonstrations, offloading early samples and installing experiments throughout different modules.

Teamwork in Orbit

The ISS currently has eleven astronauts onboard, making up what the crew has coined “Space-11.” The Axiom private astronauts and NASA’s Expedition 73 crew members continue to collaborate on cargo operations, life support system inspections, and daily scientific research. The partnership is a smooth integration of private and public space exploration.

Shukla and the other astronauts will continue installing research equipment, conducting space health experiments, and supporting the ISS as they adapt to their new, weightless environment.

Shubhanshu Shukla Set to Lead Critical Docking Operation at International Space Station Today

June 26, 2025, 11:17 am

After launching successfully on June 25, the Axiom 4 mission carrying Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is now preparing to dock with the International Space Station today, June 26. SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket lifted the Dragon spacecraft from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre, and it is currently approaching the ISS.

Therefore, the crew is on track to reach their destination by approximately 4:30 PM IST (7 AM EST). Once they dock, the Axiom-4 team will immediately begin their 14-day microgravity research mission.

Shubhanshu Shukla, whom his crewmates affectionately call “Shux,” plays a pivotal role in the docking procedure. As the designated pilot, he actively monitors the spacecraft’s trajectory and orbital parameters. Additionally, he evaluates the ISS’s position while Dragon executes its automated approach toward the space-facing port of the Harmony module.

Since timing and precision are critical in spaceflight, Shukla’s constant attention to detail will help ensure a safe and smooth docking process.

Axiom-4 will arrive at the International Space Station and dock with it on Thursday (June 26) at 4:30 PM IST, about 28 hours after launch! 🚀

(Assuming on-time liftoff tomorrow at 12:01 PM IST) pic.twitter.com/XlLHAYEfPQ

— ISRO Spaceflight (@ISROSpaceflight) June 24, 2025

Shubhanshu Shukla To Oversee Docking At ISS

The Axiom 4 crew features Commander Peggy Whitson (USA), Mission Specialist Sawosz Uznaski-Winiewski (Poland), Mission Specialist Tibor Kapu (Hungary), and pilot Shubhanshu Shukla from India. As the Dragon capsule steadily closes in on the ISS, Shukla handles real-time monitoring tasks and continuously ensures that all navigation systems stay within safety margins. Moreover, he contributes critical input through rapid calculations and technical assessments, which will guide the spacecraft during its final manoeuvres.

Meanwhile, NASA confirmed the docking schedule, saying, “The spacecraft will dock autonomously to the space-facing port of the station’s Harmony module at approximately 7 a.m. on Thursday, June 26.” Although the system automates docking, NASA emphasised that crew oversight, especially by the pilot, remains vital for mission success.

Therefore, Shubhanshu Shukla’s involvement plays a key role in achieving a safe and accurate connection.

Axiom 4 Team To Begin Microgravity Experiments

Immediately after docking, the Axiom-4 crew will begin conducting approximately 60 scientific investigations related to microgravity. Notably, Shubhanshu Shukla will lead seven of these high-impact experiments. These studies aim to generate crucial insights that could benefit medicine, space engineering, and advanced material science. As a result, the data collected will likely influence future space missions.

Furthermore, NASA announced a joint initiative with ISRO, stating, “NASA and ISRO are participating in five joint science investigations and two in-orbit science, technology, engineering, and mathematics demonstrations.” These collaborative efforts highlight a strong international alliance in space exploration.

In fact, with Shubhanshu Shukla contributing significantly, this mission symbolises both scientific progress and global cooperation in orbit.

After 41 Years, India Returns to Space with Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla

June 26, 2025, 7:58 am

At exactly 12:01 PM IST on Wednesday, flames roared under SpaceX’s Falcon 9 at Kennedy Space Center as Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla soared into space aboard the Axiom-4 mission. Just ten minutes later, his voice crackled from orbit, becoming the second Indian in space:
“After 40 years, we have returned to space again, kya kamaal ki ride thi (what a ride this has been)”

Shukla launched from Florida aboard a Dragon capsule named Grace, a striking contrast to Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 journey aboard a Soviet Soyuz spacecraft. While Sharma spent a week at Salyut 7 during Cold War diplomacy, Shukla is heading to the International Space Station (ISS) for a two-week scientific mission representing the new era of commercial spaceflight.

A Symbolic Flight with an Indian Soul

Despite the transformation in technology and geopolitics, Shukla carried a familiar symbol—the Indian flag on his shoulder—into orbit.
“The Tiranga on my shoulders tells me that I am not alone and I am with all of you,” Shukla said from space.
“This is not just the start of my journey to the International Space Station, but the beginning of India’s human space programme.”

Multiple Delays Before Takeoff

The Axiom-4 mission, a collaboration between SpaceX, Axiom Space, and NASA, faced five delays due to technical snags, weather conditions, and concerns with the ISS’s Russian Zvezda module. The crew, which had quarantined since May 26, endured one of the longest isolation periods in spaceflight history.

International Crew and a Swan Named Joy

Led by commander Peggy Whitson, America’s most experienced female astronaut, the crew included specialists Sławosz Uznański (Poland) and Tibor Kapu (Hungary). Representing India, Shukla served as the mission’s pilot.

A toy swan named Joy, serving as the mission’s zero-gravity indicator, floated with them—chosen for its symbolism of purity and wisdom in Indian culture.

Celebrations Across India

Back in India, the moment triggered national celebration. At Anusandhan Bhawan in Delhi, Union Minister Jitendra Singh distributed sweets, declaring,
“India’s ascent to the pedestal of Viksit Bharat has started via space.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted,
“He carries with him the wishes, hopes and aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians.”

In Lucknow, Shukla’s mother Asha Shukla tearfully watched the launch unfold, overwhelmed by emotion.
“These are tears of joy,” she said.

Journey of a Test Pilot to Space Hero

Shukla, born in Lucknow, joined the Indian Air Force in 2006 and became a Group Captain in 2024, logging over 2,000 hours as a test pilot. Trained under ISRO’s Human Spaceflight Programme, he studied at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Centre in Russia and earned a Master’s in Aerospace Engineering from IISc.

In a pre-launch video, his wife Kamna and son Sid sent their message:
“You are our hero.”

Rakesh Sharma’s Message to New Astronaut

India’s first astronaut, Rakesh Sharma, sent his blessings before the launch:
“Spend as much time as possible to look out of the window. Have a fun time, guys.”

Science at the Core of the Mission

The mission includes 60 scientific experiments from 31 countries, with Shukla personally overseeing seven from India and five in collaboration with NASA. These include studies on microgravity’s effect on edible algae and crop seed growth, paving the way for future space habitation.

A Stepping Stone to India’s Space Future

The mission is a major leap in Indo-US space collaboration and aligns with India’s Gaganyaan and space station goals. Former ISRO chiefs have noted that learnings from Axiom-4 will directly benefit Bharatiya Antariksh Station and indigenous astronaut missions.

Minister Singh also emphasized the importance of passing the long-delayed Space Activities Bill, which supports public-private space partnerships, mirroring the Axiom model.

What Lies Ahead

The Axiom-4 spacecraft is expected to dock with the ISS at 4:30 PM IST on June 26, after a 28-hour flight. Following this, India looks ahead to major missions like NISAR (NASA-ISRO SAR satellite), Gaganyaan, and Chandrayaan-4, aimed at deep space exploration and orbital sustainability.

SRK’s Song Travels to Space: Shubhanshu Shukla Picks Swades Track for Axiom-4 Journey

June 25, 2025, 5:07 pm

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian in space in over 40 years, marked launch day aboard Axiom-4 with a personal touch, playing Yun Ho Chala Chal from Swades. The launch from Kennedy Space Centre on June 25 at 12:01 PM IST also saw him carry Indian food and a mission badge embedded with symbols of India’s space legacy.

Shubhanshu Shukla Kicks Off Launch Day With Tribute to Bollywood

Shubhanshu Shukla chose a song from Swades, which is a film about a NASA engineer reconnecting with India, added a deliberate cultural layer to his mission. Composed by A.R. Rahman and sung by Udit Narayan, Kailash Kher, and Hariharan, the song reflects both personal and national journeys.

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

Shubanshu Shukla is piloting the NASA-backed Axiom-4 mission, echoing the arc of Shah Rukh Khan’s character in the film. His selection stood out among the international crew’s picks, which included Imagine Dragons’ Thunder for Commander Peggy Whitson and Poland’s Supermoce by Igo, Mrozu, and Vito Bambino.

Indian Symbols Fly With Axiom-4

Shukla’s mission kit also includes Indian food items, mango nectar, moong dal halwa, and gajar ka halwa modified for space consumption. However, the most visible marker of India’s presence is the Axiom-4 mission badge, designed by Manish Tripathi. It features culturally significant icons such as Aryabhata, Gaganyaan, and Jantar Mantar, all of which combine India’s space legacy with its heritage.

Moreover, the badge was created specifically for this flight and cleared for use as part of Shukla’s mission identity. As a result, India joins Hungary and Poland in symbolically returning to space. Significantly, Shukla is only the second Indian to travel to space after Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 mission with the Soviet Union.

Following the launch, Shukla said, “Namaskar, my dear countrymen; we have reached space after 41 years. It was a great ride. We are orbiting Earth at a speed of 7.5 km per second. I have the Indian tricolour on my shoulders. The tricolour tells me I am with you all. It is not just the start of my journey to the ISS but also India’s human spaceflight. I want each one of you to be part of this journey. Let us embark on India’s human space programme together.”

First Image of Shubhanshu Shukla Inside Dragon Spacecraft Released Before Axiom-4 Liftoff | Watch

June 25, 2025, 11:13 am

As India waits with bated breath for a historic moment in its space odyssey, the first images from within the SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft started gracing TV screens. The images depict Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, suited and ready, sitting with his three other crewmates for the much-anticipated Axiom-4 mission that will liftoff at 12:01 PM IST today.

The SpaceX Dragon, boosted by a Falcon-9 rocket, will blast off from Launch Complex 39A at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida — the same launchpad Neil Armstrong used for his flight to the Moon in 1969 during the Apollo 11 mission.

Dragon’s hatch is closed, all communication and suit checks are complete, the seats are rotated, and the Ax-4 crew is ready for launch!

— SpaceX (@SpaceX) June 25, 2025

Now, Shubhanshu Shukla is creating history as the second Indian astronaut to go to space, following Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who had flown on a Soviet mission in 1984. The pilot of the Indian Air Force has spent more than a month under quarantine, following rigorous health protocols for the security of the mission.

Shukla will be the pilot on the private space mission. Accompanying him are US mission commander Peggy Whitson and mission specialists Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.

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

During a recent meeting, Shukla mentioned, “I carry with me not just instruments and equipment, but the hopes and dreams of a billion hearts.”

Crew to Perform 60 Experiments, Including Seven from India

As a part of their two-week stay on the International Space Station (ISS), the Ax-4 crew will carry out 60 science experiments, including seven that have been suggested by Indian scientists. The mission has science, commercial research, and international cooperation under Axiom Space’s private astronaut program.

Several Launch Delays and Last Countdown

Axiom-4 launch has seen a series of delays caused by weather and technical issues. Today, June 25, marks the sixth launch date that NASA has planned.

Full Axiom-4 Launch and Docking Schedule (IST Transformed)

Wednesday, June 25

10:00 AM – Axiom Space and SpaceX launch coverage
11:10 AM – NASA begins its coverage of the launch
12:01 PM – Launch time

Thursday, June 26

2:30 PM – Arrival coverage to begin on NASA+, Axiom Space, and SpaceX channels
4:30 PM – Targeted docking to the ISS Harmony module

Meet The Indian Designer Behind Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom-4 Mission Badge

June 25, 2025, 10:43 am

The Axiom-4 mission badge, created by Manish Tripathi for astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, will bear India’s imprint in space. The emblem features icons like as Aryabhata, Gaganyaan, and Jantar Mantar, which combine cultural symbolism with space accomplishments.

While it reflects India’s scientific past, it also captures India’s role in modern space exploration.

Axiom-4 Badge Carries India’s Fingerprint

The emblem emphasises India’s identity in space by combining heritage and technology. Tripathi featured the Jantar Mantar to commemorate early astronomy, the Aryabhata satellite to commemorate India’s first orbit, and the Gaganyaan emblem to commemorate India’s first human spaceflight program.

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

He added symbols like infinity and zero, which originated in India, and celestial bodies like the Sun and Moon. The Moon also connects to Chandrayaan-2 and -3 missions, while the Sun represents continuity in both science and Indian culture. The map of India placed in the chin of an astronaut helmet refers to Lord Hanuman’s strength, meant to symbolise forward motion.

The badge’s stamp-like shape shows India marking its presence globally. It also includes flags and maps of other nations involved in Axiom-4, underlining global cooperation in space research. Every symbol was tested for durability in space conditions. According to Tripathi, this is not just decoration—it’s a functional, layered design that shows India’s progress in a global context.

Axion-4 Badge Backstory

Manish Tripathi and Shubhanshu Shukla, once classmates, worked together for eight months to develop the badge. They shared ideas across time zones to make sure it would truly reflect India’s role in space. Tripathi explained that this design is “India’s fingerprint in space,” made with input and understanding between two professionals who shared a common vision.

Shukla, set to be the first Indian astronaut on the ISS, will wear the badge on his space suit. Tripathi called him “a real superhero.” Their work comes at a time when India is becoming an active participant in international space missions. The Axiom-4 mission is a part of a larger trend where NASA collaborates with many private companies, such as SpaceX and Axiom Space.

India’s participation in these projects shows a change in the way the nation advances space exploration, not just in terms of science but also in terms of culture and design.

Axiom-4: First Ever Astronaut Brings Indian Sweets, Toy Swan, & Surprise Gift to ISS

June 24, 2025, 5:33 pm

Axiom-4 is a special mission for India as Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla prepares to fly to the International Space Station. He becomes the second Indian to go to space, following Rakesh Sharma’s mission 40 years ago. His journey is not just about science but also full of emotion and pride.

Along with scientific equipment, Shukla carries Indian sweets, a small toy swan, and a surprise gift for his hero.

🚨 ISRO and the DRDO have developed space-friendly Indian food after years of research.

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla is set to carry moong dal halwa, gajar ka halwa and aam ras to space (ISS) pic.twitter.com/UOhcBYo4Ql

— Indian Tech & Infra (@IndianTechGuide) June 10, 2025

Personal Items for Axiom-4 Mission

Group Captain Shukla’s mission has created a lot of excitement in India. Besides his work, he is taking a few personal items with him. The Axiom-4 mission, led by Peggy Whitson, includes astronauts from Poland and Hungary, who also return to space after many years.

Shukla said, “I carry not just instruments and equipment, I carry hopes and dreams of a billion hearts.” He will take some of his favourite Indian sweets into space: mango nectar, carrot halva, and moong dal halva, specially prepared for the mission. “There will be plenty of food to eat in space, but I will be carrying mango nectar, carrot halva and moong dal halva with me,” he said. His sister added, “He is a fitness-freak and highly into yoga so I am sure he will balance it.”

The crew will also bring “Joy,” a small white swan toy, which will float when they reach zero gravity. Commander Whitson said, “In India, it symbolises wisdom and purity, representing the pursuit of truth.” Shukla added that the swan represents the vehicle of Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of learning. Hungarian astronaut Kapu named the toy, saying, “A team that has joy is a team that is healthy.”

Gift for India’s First Astronaut

Shukla will also take a secret gift for India’s first astronaut, Rakesh Sharma. Sharma flew to space in 1984 and inspired Shukla, who was born a year later. “I grew up reading about him in textbooks and listening to his stories. I was deeply impressed by him,” Shukla said.

Sharma has helped him prepare for the mission. “He is advising me on a lot of things, including how to prepare for this mission.” Shukla did not reveal what the gift is but promised, “It will be a surprise.”

Why Has the Axiom-4 Mission With Shubhanshu Shukla Been Delayed Six Times?

June 20, 2025, 12:52 pm

The highly anticipated Axiom-4 spaceflight mission, featuring Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla in its four-person crew, has been postponed again. It is the sixth delay for the private flight, which was originally planned for May 29, 2025. The recent rescheduling means the launch on June 22, as earlier scheduled, will no longer happen. A new date will be announced in a few days.

The present launch window is available until June 30. In case the Axiom-4 mission is not launched within this period, it will have to be delayed until the next available window around mid-July.

Why Has Axiom-4 Been Delayed So Many Times?

NASA and Axiom Space have attributed recurrent delays to continuous safety and operational evaluations aboard the International Space Station (ISS), particularly after recent repairs to the Zvezda service module, found in the aft part of the station.

Axiom Space clarified in a statement, “With the space station’s intricate and interconnected systems, NASA is taking the time to go over the data and make sure it is ready to accommodate more crew members.”

Here’s a timeline of the six delays so far:

May 29: Launch postponed because of an “observation in the electrical harness” on the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft.
June 8: Deferred since the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch vehicle was not prepared.
June 9: Second delay due to adverse weather conditions along the rocket’s flight trajectory.
June 10: An oxygen leak and a faulty one of the actuators advanced the launch to June 11.
June 11: Fears over a suspected leak in the rear part of the Russian module delayed the launch once more.
June 19: Launch rescheduled to June 22 to provide additional time for ISS inspections.
June 22: Latest postponement due to outstanding operational and safety issues on the ISS.

What Is the Axiom-4 Mission?

The Axiom-4 mission is a commercial spaceflight sponsored by Axiom Space in partnership with NASA. The astronauts will perform approximately 60 scientific experiments on board the International Space Station.

Indian spaceflight participant Shubhanshu Shukla will command a set of food and nutrition studies designed in cooperation with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT). The experiments are intended to advance space nutrition and investigate self-sustaining life support systems essential for long-duration missions of the future.

Shukla is joined by Commander Peggy Whitson, a seasoned NASA astronaut, Tigor Kapu of Hungary, and Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland.

This mission is a historic comeback for India to human space travel, after 41 years since Rakesh Sharma went into space on a Soviet Soyuz space ship in 1984 as the first Indian in space.

Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom-4 Space Mission Delayed Again, New Launch Date Set for June 22

June 18, 2025, 12:17 pm

The long-awaited Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) with Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has been postponed yet again. The launch, initially scheduled for June 19, is now planned for June 22. The third postponement of the mission.

Axiom Space announced the postponement, citing continued operations testing on the ISS after recent repairs. “The revision to a planned launch date gives NASA time to continue assessing space station operations after recent repairs in the aft (rear) most part of the International Space Station’s Evezda service module,” Axiom announced in a statement.

Previous Delay Because of Rocket Malfunction

The launch had previously been postponed owing to a technical problem with the Falcon-9 rocket of SpaceX. SpaceX had to advance the timeline after a leak in the liquid oxygen system. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) last week had affirmed that the problem had been rectified and the mission had been rescheduled for June 19.

India’s Big Leap in Human Spaceflight

The Axiom-4 crew consists of Indian, Polish, and Hungarian astronauts, each a visitor from their nation to the space station. The mission is the second government-supported human spaceflight program in more than four decades, Axiom Space said.

v will be only the second Indian to go to space after Rakesh Sharma who flew in 1984. His joining the crew of Ax-4 marks a giant leap for India’s ambitions in human space travel.

Scientific Focus of the Mission

Shukla will perform seven microgravity experiments during the mission to enhance India’s space-based research capabilities. The experiments will also augment India’s long-term ambitions of building a space station by 2035 and conducting a manned lunar mission by 2047.

Two-Week Stay on the ISS

The Ax-4 mission is set to take 14 days on the ISS. The crew will reside and function in the laboratory aboard the orbiting space station, helping facilitate ongoing research and global partnership in space.

Axiom’s Repeated Missions to the ISS

NASA has overseen three Axiom missions to the ISS thus far. Axiom Mission 1 (Ax-1) occurred in April 2022 and lasted 17 days. Axiom Mission 2 (Ax-2) flew in May 2023, with its occupants remaining on board for eight days. The latest, Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3), was conducted in January 2024 and had the crew on the ISS for 18 days.

The next Ax-4 mission will be pursuing this track record of successful private astronaut missions while creating a historic milestone for India.