Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla Makes History with Axiom-4 Mission Launch

DIGITAL DESK- In a moment of national pride, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, an Indian Air Force pilot and ISRO astronaut, soared into space aboard the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission, becoming the first Indian to visit the International Space Station (ISS) and the second Indian astronaut to reach orbit after Rakesh Sharma’s historic flight in 1984. The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, carrying the Crew Dragon spacecraft, lifted off at 12:01 PM IST (2:31 AM ET) from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, marking a significant milestone in India’s space exploration journey.

Shukla, serving as the mission pilot, is joined by a diverse crew led by veteran astronaut and Axiom Space’s Director of Human Spaceflight, Peggy Whitson (USA), alongside mission specialists Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski (Poland) and Tibor Kapu (Hungary).

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The mission, a collaboration between NASA, Axiom Space, and SpaceX, overcame multiple delays due to technical issues, weather challenges, and repairs on the ISS’s Russian module, finally launching under 90% favorable weather conditions.

A Historic Journey for India

Hailing from Lucknow, the 39-year-old Shukla, described by his crew as an “Evil Genius” for his exceptional memory and problem-solving skills, carries the hopes of 1.4 billion Indians. Speaking from the Dragon spacecraft, Shukla said, “I want each one of you to be part of this journey, let us embark on India’s human space programme together.” He expressed pride in carrying the Indian tricolor, stating, “The Tiranga on my shoulder connects me to my nation.”

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The Axiom-4 mission, a two-week endeavor, will see the crew conduct over 60 scientific experiments, including seven designed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Shukla, an accomplished fighter pilot with over 2,000 hours of flying experience, also brought personal touches to the mission, including Indian sweets like mango nectar and halwa, and a secret souvenir for his mentor, Rakesh Sharma.

Nation Celebrates a New Milestone

The launch sparked celebrations across India, with President Droupadi Murmu tweeting, “As Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla creates a new milestone in space for India, the whole nation is excited and proud of an Indian’s journey into the stars.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also extended congratulations, highlighting Shukla’s role in elevating India’s global space presence.

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In Bengaluru, Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium Director Dr. B R Guruprasad called the launch “a matter of pride, happiness, and excitement for all 140 crore Indians.” In Lucknow, Shukla’s parents watched emotionally as their son embarked on this historic journey, with his mother crediting his wife, Dr. Kamna Shukla, a dentist and his school-time sweetheart, for her unwavering support.

Emotional Farewell and Viral Note

Before the launch, Shukla’s heartfelt social media post dedicated to his wife, family, and friends went viral, resonating with millions. “This journey wouldn’t be possible without the sacrifices of my loved ones,” he wrote, reflecting on the emotional weight of leaving home for this mission. As he prepared for liftoff, Shukla listened to A.R. Rahman’s “Yun Hi Chala Chal,” a poignant nod to his roots.

A Step Toward India’s Space Ambitions

The Axiom-4 mission, costing India approximately ₹548 crore for training, logistics, and research, underscores ISRO’s growing role in human spaceflight. Shukla, one of the four astronauts selected for ISRO’s Gaganyaan mission set for later in 2025, underwent rigorous training at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in Russia. His participation in Ax-4 strengthens India’s capabilities and global standing in space exploration.

The spacecraft is scheduled to dock with the ISS around 4:30 PM IST on Thursday, June 26, where the crew will begin their scientific work. As Shukla’s mission unfolds, India watches with bated breath, celebrating a new chapter in its space odyssey.