New Delhi, June 24, 2025: A new chapter is about to be written in the history of Indian space science. Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla is all set to embark on a journey to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom Space Axiom-4 mission. This historic mission is scheduled to launch on June 25 at 12:01 AM IST from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, USA.

The mission will utilize SpaceX’s advanced Falcon-9 rocket and Dragon spacecraft. The astronauts will stay in space for approximately 14 days, conducting various scientific experiments and research activities.

Mission Delayed Six Times, Now Ready for Launch

The Axiom-4 mission was initially scheduled to launch on May 29, 2025, but due to technical issues, it was postponed six times. Now, both NASA and SpaceX have given the green light for the launch. Shubhanshu Shukla will be joined by other international astronauts on this mission.

A New Flight After Rakesh Sharma

India’s first astronaut, Rakesh Sharma, flew into space in 1984 as part of the Soviet Union’s Soyuz T-11 mission. His legendary flight is remembered for the famous words, “Saare Jahan Se Achha.” Now, four decades later, Shubhanshu Shukla is set to travel to the International Space Station via a private space mission, marking a significant leap forward for India’s space sector.

Paving the Way for the Future

Missions like Axiom-4 not only strengthen space research but also lay the foundation for future human missions to the Moon and Mars.With increasing collaboration between private companies and international agencies, the space sector is rapidly evolving into a global commercial industry.

Key Highlights of the Mission:

Mission Name: Axiom-4

Indian Astronaut: Shubhanshu Shukla

Launch Date: June 25, 2025 (12:01 AM IST)

Launch Site: Kennedy Space Center, Florida, USA

Launch Vehicle: SpaceX Falcon-9 Spacecraft: Dragon Capsule*

Duration: Approximately 14 days

Objective: Scientific experiments, research, and commercial space experience—

Nationwide Excitement in India

Following the announcement of the Axiom-4 mission, there has been a surge of excitement across the Indian public, media, scientific community, and students. People are sharing their best wishes for Shubhanshu on social media, and special space science programs are being organized in schools and colleges across the country.

What Will Shubhanshu Shukla Do in Space?

During the mission, Shubhanshu Shukla and his team will carry out a range of scientific experiments related to biomedicine, the effects of microgravity, and space technology. This mission will also contribute to the groundwork for long-duration space missions in the future.

Shubhanshu Shukla’s journey is set to open new possibilities for India in space exploration. This mission is not only a technological achievement but also a reflection of the nation’s scientific mindset, self-reliance, and global recognition. For Hungary, Poland, and India, the Axiom-4 mission is poised to become a historic and inspiring milestone.