Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom 4 mission launch is scheduled to take place today, marking a historic step for India’s growing space ambitions. The mission, in collaboration with SpaceX and Axiom Space, will send the Indian Air Force’s Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and three other international astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS). This landmark moment not only showcases India’s strengthening position in the global space ecosystem but also lays the groundwork for ISRO’s long-term lunar goals.
The launch of Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom 4 mission was previously delayed but is now set to finally lift off on Wednesday, June 26, IST (Tuesday night EDT). The astronaut will be accompanied by Peggy Whitson (USA), Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski (Poland), and Tibor Kapu (Hungary) aboard the latest SpaceX Dragon spacecraft.
About Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom 4 Mission Launch
Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom 4 mission launch is a part of a private-public initiative aimed at expanding human spaceflight beyond traditional government agencies. The four-member crew will dock at the ISS and spend nearly two weeks aboard the orbital laboratory, conducting research, international collaboration, and promoting scientific awareness.
For India, this mission is a giant leap. Shubhanshu Shukla represents ISRO’s ambition to eventually send Indian astronauts to the Moon by 2040, as announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year.
Timeline: Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom 4 Mission Launch
Here is the full schedule and timeline of Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom 4 mission launch (all times in IST unless stated otherwise):
Wednesday, June 26
- 10:00 am IST (12:30 am EDT) – Pre-launch coverage begins on NASA+, Axiom Space, and SpaceX official channels.
- 11:10 am IST (1:40 am EDT) – NASA officially joins the livestream.
- 12:01 pm IST (2:31 am EDT) – Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom 4 mission launch via SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
- 12:16 pm IST – Orbital insertion and end of launch coverage.
Thursday, June 27
- 2:30 pm IST (5:00 am EDT) – Docking coverage begins.
- 4:30 pm IST (7:00 am EDT) – Targeted docking with the ISS’s Harmony module.
- Post-docking – Hatch opening and welcome ceremony at the ISS.
NASA has advised that actual timings may vary depending on real-time flight adjustments. Viewers can follow updates on NASA’s space station blog.
Live Streaming: Where to Watch
Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom 4 mission launch will be live-streamed on:
These platforms will also provide live updates of docking and arrival.
Mission Objectives
As part of Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom 4 mission launch, the astronauts will:
- Conduct microgravity experiments
- Demonstrate new space tech
- Carry out biological and materials science research
- Engage in international cooperation tasks
- Promote STEM education and outreach
The mission is designed to foster global collaboration in low-Earth orbit operations and inspire future generations of space scientists.
Cost of the Axiom 4 Mission
While Hungary has publicly announced paying $100 million for its astronaut’s participation, India and Poland have not revealed exact figures. However, as per PTI reports, ISRO is investing ₹550 crore in Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom 4 mission launch. This includes astronaut training, support systems, and the crew’s integration into the SpaceX framework.
Significance for India’s Space Program
Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom 4 mission launch is India’s first participation in a commercial crewed spaceflight to the ISS. It acts as a bridge to the Gaganyaan mission—India’s first human spaceflight mission expected in 2025–26.
Group Captain Shukla’s journey also symbolizes the growing Indo-US space collaboration and the nation’s readiness to step into deeper space exploration missions. His success could significantly accelerate India’s roadmap to its first manned lunar mission, targeted before 2040.
Who Is Shubhanshu Shukla?
Shubhanshu Shukla is a decorated pilot with the Indian Air Force and one of ISRO’s shortlisted astronauts for India’s indigenous human spaceflight program. As a mission specialist on Axiom 4, Shukla will contribute to scientific and technology demonstrations aboard the ISS, bringing back vital knowledge and experience for India’s own missions.
Global Space Community Applauds the Mission
The international space community has hailed Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom 4 mission launch as a milestone for inclusive, multi-national exploration. It also represents a shift toward commercial access to space, where nations like India, Hungary, and Poland can participate alongside established space powers.
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