The Ax4 crew and SpaceX teams completed a full rehearsal of launch day activities ahead of liftoff on Tuesday (image credit Axiom Space).
Ax4 crew Shukla will be Second Indian to Travel to Space, 41 Years After Rakesh Sharma’s Iconic Mission
Indian astronaut Shubhashu Shukla Ax4 crew will make history on (mission halted due to oxygen leakage new launch date not announced yet ) as he becomes the second Indian to travel to space. His mission revives India’s legacy in human spaceflight after Rakesh Sharma’s historic 1984 journey.
Introduction: Ax4 crew Shukla-A Proud Moment for India
India is once again on the global spaceflight map as astronaut Shubhashu Shukla prepares for his much-anticipated space mission, scheduled for launch on June 10, 2025. This mission is a monumental milestone for India, coming 41 years after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma became the first Indian to travel to space in 1984.
With this mission, Shukla will become only the second Indian citizen to reach space, a proud continuation of the legacy set by Sharma. The launch is part of an international collaboration involving a commercial spaceflight operator and major global space agencies, highlighting India’s growing stature in human space exploration.
Shubhashu Shukla: Inspired by Rakesh Sharma, Driven by Purpose
Shubhashu Shukla, a trained aerospace engineer and mission specialist, has openly acknowledged the deep inspiration he draws from Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 Soyuz T-11 mission. Speaking just days ahead of the launch, Shukla said:
“I feel extremely fortunate and honored to be a part of this historic mission. This is not just a personal achievement — it is a moment of pride for the entire nation.”
Shukla’s selection followed a rigorous training regime that included simulations, high-gravity conditioning, spacewalk preparation, and survival training in extreme environments. He underwent his final pre-launch quarantine in early June to minimize health risks before takeoff.
Mission Overview: International Collaboration, Scientific Objectives
The upcoming spaceflight will be launched aboard a crewed capsule headed to the International Space Station (ISS). It is part of a broader international partnership involving Axiom Space, NASA, ESA, and several private space tech providers. While detailed mission parameters remain classified due to international protocols, the objectives are said to include:
- Microgravity experiments
- Earth observation tasks
- Biomedical monitoring
- Technology demonstrations for future space habitats
The mission is not just a symbolic one; it plays a key role in expanding the scope of India’s participation in human space science and aligns closely with ISRO’s long-term goals for the Gaganyaan program.
Launch Details and Timeline
- Launch Date: June 10, 2025
- Location: Kennedy Space Center, Florida, USA
- Spacecraft: Commercial crew vehicle developed by Axiom Space
- Mission Duration: Expected 10 days
- Destination: International Space Station (Low Earth Orbit)
The launch will be streamed live across multiple platforms, including ISRO’s official channels, NASA TV, and various global media outlets
A Nation Watches with Hope and Pride
This moment is more than just a space mission — it is a source of national pride, scientific achievement, and inspiration for millions of students and future scientists across India. Shukla’s message to young Indians is clear:
“Space exploration is not just about rockets and astronauts. It is about science, innovation, and the belief that India can lead the world in advanced technologies.”
As the world looks skyward on June 10, India will have its eyes set on the stars — and one of its own heading straight toward them.
Why This Mission Matters: Key Takeaways
- Rekindles Indian human spaceflight after 41 years
- Strengthens India’s global space collaboration
- Boosts interest in STEM education among youth
Marks a critical step towards India’s own human space program (Gaganyaan)
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is Shubhashu Shukla?
Shubhashu Shukla is an Indian aerospace engineer and astronaut selected for an international space mission. He will be the second Indian to travel to space, following Rakesh Sharma’s historic mission in 1984.
2. When is Shubhashu Shukla’s space mission scheduled to launch?
The mission is scheduled to launch on June 10, 2025, from Kennedy Space Center, USA.
3. What is the purpose of this space mission?
The mission aims to conduct scientific experiments in microgravity, observe Earth from orbit, test biomedical responses in space, and support technology demonstrations for future space habitation.
4. How long will the mission last?
The expected mission duration is approximately 10 days, during which the crew will live and work aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
5. What makes this mission significant for India?
This is India’s first crewed space representation in over four decades and strengthens India’s participation in international space collaboration. It also builds momentum for India’s own upcoming human spaceflight program, Gaganyaan.
6. Will the launch be streamed live?
Yes, the launch will be broadcast live via official platforms including ISRO, NASA TV, and Axiom Space’s digital channels.
7. What type of spacecraft will carry Shubhashu Shukla to space?
The astronaut will fly aboard a commercial crew vehicle developed by Axiom Space, designed for safe travel to the International Space Station.